Reds Shortstop De La Cruz Leaves Game with Quad Tightness

Cincinnati's Elly De La Cruz exited Sunday's game against the Cubs due to left quad tightness after going 2-for-4 with a run. The 24-year-old has a history of quad problems, including a partial tear last season, and also spent time on the injured list earlier this year with a hamstring strain. With the Reds eight games back in the wild-card race, the team is unlikely to rush his return.

De La Cruz's exit marks another interruption in a season already disrupted by physical issues. He spent ten days on the injured list earlier this year with a right hamstring strain, and his 2025 campaign was complicated by a partial quad tear that he played through for months, according to team president Nick Krall. Sunday's outing was productive before he departed—two hits and a run scored.

The Reds' standing may shape how they proceed. At 64-72 and eight games back in the wild-card chase, Cincinnati has little incentive to accelerate his return. De La Cruz's season line—21 home runs, 60 RBI, 24 stolen bases—highlights his central role in the franchise's plans, making caution the likely path.