Full Breakdown
Elly De La Cruz Set to Return to Reds Lineup After 19-Game Absence
6/23/2026, 12:58:30 PM
Activation Ahead of Tuesday’s Series Finale vs. Milwaukee
Cincinnati shortstop Elly De La Cruz will be reinstated from the 10-day injured list on Tuesday, the day before the final game of the three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Manager Terry Francona confirmed the move, noting that De La Cruz will receive a rest day on Monday’s opener before rejoining the lineup for the series finale.
Injury and Triple-A Rehab
De La Cruz suffered a right hamstring strain while rounding first base in the May 31 loss to the Atlanta Braves. The injury placed him on the injured list, ending a streak of 276 consecutive games. He began a rehab assignment at Triple-A Louisville on June 19, playing three games. He went 2-for-8, hit a home run, a walk, and a 441-foot blast on Friday. After homering in his first rehab start, he texted Francona, “Be there tomorrow,” but the club did not rush his return.
Performance Metrics and Team Impact
Before the injury, De La Cruz posted a .280/.346/.509 slash line with 12 home runs, 13 doubles, 10 stolen bases and an .855 OPS, marking the strongest start of his four-year career. During his 19-game absence, the Reds’ offense fell to 3.83 runs per game, and the team compiled a 7-11 record, slipping to 37-39 and last place in the National League Central, 9.5 games behind the Brewers and 2.5 games behind the Chicago Cubs for the final Wild Card spot.
Official Statements and Roster Adjustments
Francona said De La Cruz will resume his everyday role at shortstop, moving Matt McLain back to second base where he will compete with Spencer Steer and rookie Edwin Arroyo. The manager also indicated that De La Cruz will be given a day of rest on Monday before reentering the lineup. In conjunction with the activation, the Reds promoted right-handed pitcher Julian Garcia from Triple-A and activated right-handed reliever Pierce Johnson, while optioning Zach Maxwell and designating Chris Paddack for assignment.
Impact on Offense and Playoff Outlook
The shortstop’s return is expected to boost Cincinnati’s batting production. With the team still within two games of the Wild Card race, his presence could help the Reds close the gap on the Cubs and contend for a postseason berth. Nonetheless, front-office personnel have indicated that an external acquisition at the August 3 trade deadline may still be required to reinforce the lineup.
Upcoming Schedule and Prospects
De La Cruz’s first game back will be the Tuesday night contest against Milwaukee. The Reds will complete the series with a final game on Wednesday before resuming a road trip. The organization will monitor his health closely and evaluate additional roster moves as the season progresses.
Verbatim Quotes
> “Be there tomorrow” — Elly De La Cruz, text to manager Terry Francona
