Reds' Elly De La Cruz Hits Home Run One Day After Sister's Death

Cincinnati Reds slugger Elly De La Cruz pointed to the sky after hitting a home run against the Chicago Cubs one day after the death of his older sister.

Genelis De La Cruz Sánchez died Saturday after suffering from health issues, per MLB reporter Héctor Gómez.

De La Cruz also hit a single in the top of the first inning, then scored in the ninth after getting on base with a walk.

He honored his sister throughout the game with messages written on his spikes and hat, per MLB.com's Mark Sheldon.

Reds manager Terry Francona told reporters De La Cruz had wanted to play in Sunday's game.

"We care so much about playing a game and winning, but in a hurry you're reminded of what's really important," Francona said. "I think everybody kind of kept their head on a swivel with him today, just trying to take care of him."

Francona added, "He takes so much pride in being available... for a kid that's that young, that's an admirable trait."

The home run, hit against the Chicago Cubs in the top of Sunday's sixth inning, marked the 50th of De La Cruz's career. He leads the Reds with 12 home runs so far this season.