Trend Report
Elly De La Cruz: The Reds Superstar Driving Merchandise Mania
Updated September 6, 2026
Elly De La Cruz is electrifying baseball fans with his blazing speed, raw power, and unforgettable moments—like rescuing a bird mid-game. As his star rises, so does demand for Elly De La Cruz jerseys, bobbleheads, and rookie cards. Here's why this young shortstop is a must-watch and where to score authentic gear.
Key takeaways
- ✓Elly De La Cruz is a 22-year-old Reds shortstop with elite power and speed, already a top MLB star.
- ✓He's on pace for a historic 30-70 season, with 20 homers and 51 steals as of late July 2024.
- ✓His viral bird-rescue moment boosted his popularity beyond baseball fans.
- ✓Authentic merchandise includes jerseys, bobbleheads, rookie cards, and autographs, with prices ranging from budget-friendly to high-end.
- ✓Investing in his memorabilia now could yield returns as his career progresses.
Who Is Elly De La Cruz?
Elly De La Cruz is a 22-year-old shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds, hailing from the Dominican Republic. He burst onto the MLB scene in 2023, instantly becoming one of the most exciting players in the league. Standing 6'5" with switch-hitting power and elite speed, he's a rare five-tool talent.
His rookie season saw him hit 13 home runs and steal 35 bases in just 98 games, making him the fastest player to reach 10 homers and 20 steals in MLB history. In 2024, he's continued to dazzle, already smashing 20+ homers and stealing 50+ bases, cementing his status as a franchise cornerstone.
What Team Does Elly De La Cruz Play For?
Elly De La Cruz plays for the Cincinnati Reds, one of baseball's oldest and most storied franchises. As a Red, he wears the iconic #44, a number steeped in history—previously worn by Hall of Famer Eric Davis. His electric play has reinvigorated Reds fans, making Cincinnati a must-watch team again.
With his combination of power and speed, De La Cruz is drawing comparisons to legends like Barry Larkin and even Bo Jackson. For fans, owning his jersey is a way to celebrate the new era of Reds baseball.
How Many Home Runs Has Elly De La Cruz Hit This Season?
As of late July 2024, Elly De La Cruz has crushed 20 home runs and swiped 51 bases, putting him on pace for a historic 30-70 season—a feat never before accomplished in MLB history. His power surge has been a key driver of the Reds' playoff push.
Each homer sends fans scrambling for his merchandise, from jerseys to bobbleheads. His rookie cards are also skyrocketing in value, making them a hot commodity for collectors. If you're looking to invest in his memorabilia, now is the time.
What Happened with Elly De La Cruz and the Bird?
During a July 2024 game against the Atlanta Braves, a bird collided with De La Cruz's shoulder as he stood at shortstop. Instead of shooing it away, he gently picked it up and carried it to the dugout for medical attention. The heartwarming moment went viral, showcasing his compassion off the field.
The bird, later named 'Elly' by fans, survived and was released. This incident endeared him to animal lovers and sports fans alike, further boosting his popularity and search interest. It's a story that transcends baseball, making him a relatable and beloved figure.
Where Can I Buy Authentic Elly De La Cruz Merchandise?
With his rising fame, authentic Elly De La Cruz gear is in high demand. You can find officially licensed jerseys, shirts, and caps at major retailers like Fanatics, MLB Shop, and Amazon. For collectibles like bobbleheads and rookie cards, specialty sports memorabilia stores and online marketplaces are your best bet.
To ensure you're getting genuine products, look for official MLB licensing and hologram stickers on autographed items. Prices vary widely, from affordable shirts to high-end autographed jerseys. For a curated selection of top-rated merchandise, check out our comprehensive buying guide.
Why Elly De La Cruz Merch Is a Smart Investment
Elly De La Cruz is not just a flash in the pan; he's a generational talent. His rookie cards have already seen significant appreciation, and experts predict they'll continue to rise if he maintains his trajectory. Limited-edition bobbleheads and autographed memorabilia are also prime collector's items.
Beyond investment, wearing his gear shows you're part of the excitement early. As the Reds build around him, his legacy—and the value of his merchandise—is only set to grow. Don't miss out on owning a piece of baseball history.
Ready to shop?
We independently tested products related to this trend on Amazon.
See our Elly De La Cruz buying guide →Frequently asked questions
usonlinetrends publishes independent trend reports and buying guides. This article is editorial — not sponsored by brands mentioned.