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TEMPE, ARIZONA - MARCH 19: Elly De La Cruz #44 of the Cincinnati Reds runs to first base during the a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on March 19, 2024 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
TEMPE, ARIZONA - MARCH 19: Elly De La Cruz #44 of the Cincinnati Reds runs to first base during the a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on March 19, 2024 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)Chris Coduto/Getty Images

Video: Reds' Elly De La Cruz Speaks English in Press Conference for 1st Time

Timothy Rapp
Mar 27, 2024

Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz did his press conference on Wednesday in English, a first for the Dominican infielder.

"I think I'm doing a good job," he said, laughing.

"I practice every day, talking with the other guys," he continued, referencing his teammates, when asked how he learned English. "I just started with them, and I let it go. I like talking with the American guys because I create confidence. I don't need [translator Jorge Merlos] anymore."

When Merlos joked that he could leave, De La Cruz laughed and added, "He helped me a lot."

The whole situation impressed Cincy manager David Bell:

"He's incredibly thoughtful. He's humble, the way he listens and learns," he said. "It's amazing. I can't relate to that. The courage that takes, and just the respect that he has. ... It's impressive."

The 22-year-old De La Cruz is the centerpiece of the Reds organization after hitting .235 with 13 homers, 44 RBI, 67 runs, 35 stolen bases and a .710 OPS in just 98 games during his rookie season. And now he can speak directly to, and with, fans in English.

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