The Cincinnati Reds and their electric shortstop Elly De La Cruz have made headlines once again — but this time, it’s not just for what he’s doing on the field. De La Cruz has officially confirmed a record-shattering $261 million contract extension with the Reds, solidifying his place as the face of the franchise for the foreseeable future.
The deal, which spans 12 years, marks one of the largest in MLB history for a player under 25 and is easily the richest in Reds franchise history. The announcement came early Friday morning, sending shockwaves through the baseball world and lighting up social media.
“This city believed in me when I was just a kid with a dream,” De La Cruz said at the press conference held at Great American Ball Park. “Now I get to repay that belief by giving everything I have — every game, every at-bat, every inning — right here in Cincinnati.”
A Star in the Making
Since debuting in the majors in 2023, De La Cruz has dazzled fans and opponents alike with his rare combination of speed, power, and jaw-dropping athleticism. He’s been described as a once-in-a-generation talent, drawing comparisons to legends like Bo Jackson and Alex Rodriguez — but with a flair all his own.
Through the first half of the 2025 season, the 23-year-old phenom is batting .301 with 19 home runs, 63 RBIs, and 32 stolen bases. But beyond the numbers, it’s his impact on and off the field that has made him the cornerstone of the Reds’ long-term vision.
The Deal Breakdown
While exact terms are still being finalized, sources close to the negotiation say the $261 million includes performance bonuses, opt-outs, and a full no-trade clause — a sign of the Reds’ commitment to building around De La Cruz.
Here’s what we know so far:
- Length: 12 years (through 2036)
- Total Value: $261 million
- Signing Bonus: Estimated $20 million
- Opt-Outs: After Year 5 and Year 8
- No-Trade Clause: Full
- Incentives: MVP votes, playoff appearances, Gold Glove/Silver Slugger awards
Franchise Cornerstone
The Reds, currently battling for the top spot in the NL Central, are signaling they’re all-in on a championship window — and locking down De La Cruz is a crucial part of that. Team President Nick Krall called the move “a transformational moment for the franchise.”
“Elly isn’t just a superstar — he’s a leader, a worker, and a game-changer,” Krall said. “He embodies everything we want the Cincinnati Reds to represent.”
The Bigger Picture
This contract puts De La Cruz among the elite earners in baseball, joining the ranks of Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Aaron Judge. But unlike many stars who chase deals in big markets, De La Cruz staying in Cincinnati is a huge win for small- and mid-market teams fighting to keep homegrown talent.
Fans across the Queen City are already celebrating the deal — with many calling it a “touchdown” not just for the Reds, but for the entire Cincinnati sports community.
