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

Timothy Rapp@@TRappaRTFeatured Columnist IVMarch 28, 2024

Chris Coduto/Getty Images

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

Caleb Noe @CalebNoeTVFor the first time, #Reds SS Elly De La Cruz did his entire press conference in English today.

“It’s important for the fans to understand me, and me understand the fans. I’ve put a lot of work on my English to talk with you guys.”

Elly joked that he doesn’t need a translator… pic.twitter.com/3lHQyXTaQU

“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:

Olivia Ray @OliviaRayTV”It’s important to the fans to understand me and me understand the fans.” – @ellylacocoa18

Elly De La Cruz casually walked into his press conference today – answering every question in English. A project he spent a lot of time on in the offseason.#Reds manager David Bell… pic.twitter.com/bKJwhtf4zp

“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.