<p>De La Cruz is profiled as a dynamic talent who showed promise with 30/30-like potential, and many expect more growth as plate discipline and average rise. His athleticism and versatility across infield spots add flexibility to fantasy rosters.</p><p>The draft takeaway is that his ceiling remains sky-high, and his age suggests substantial development is still ahead in 2026, making him a high-upside target in keeper and dynasty leagues.</p>

De La Cruz showed plate discipline and power but couldn’t solve Dodgers pitching in the wild-card series. His performance is a bright spot for Cincinnati’s future, signaling potential fantasy upside as he develops.

De La Cruz is a rising core asset; his ceiling is high, but he needs protection and balance from a power hitter to maximize his impact.

Elly De La Cruz drew a key strike on an 80 mph curve in the sixth, a reminder of the Reds’ explosive ceiling but also the momentary setback against Yamamoto.

De La Cruz, among Reds' core prospects, contributed during the sequence but Cincinnati’s bases-loaded opportunities stalled, illustrating the gap between talent and execution in the moment.