Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz was participating in a dangerous activity this week.
A video circulating on social media this week sparked concern among Cincinnati Reds fans after shortstop Elly De La Cruz appeared alongside a dirt bike. The clip, which surfaced on Thursday, quickly gained traction online, prompting questions about player safety and offseason activities. For a franchise built around its young superstar, any hint of risk naturally raises alarms.
De La Cruz has become the face of the Reds’ organization and one of the most electrifying players in baseball. His speed, power and highlight‑reel athleticism have made him a must‑watch player, but they have also made the organization especially cautious when it comes to his health especially after dealing with a left quad injury in 2025. That context made the video stand out almost immediately.
Those concerns were addressed soon after by Reds general manager Brad Meador. “Reds GM Brad Meador on the video of Elly De La Cruz on a dirt bike: ‘I talked to Elly. He wasn’t riding it. It was just for the video,’” reported Charlie Goldsmith of FOX19 on Friday. The clarification helped ease fears and shifted the conversation away from potential danger and back toward perspective.
Still, the initial reaction underscored how closely De La Cruz is monitored. Teams often discourage players from engaging in activities that could lead to unnecessary injury, especially when those players are central to long‑term plans. Even the appearance of risk can create unease, particularly during the offseason.
On the field, De La Cruz’s value to Cincinnati is undeniable. The 24‑year‑old appeared in 162 games last season, hitting .264 with a .336 on‑base percentage and a .777 OPS. He totaled 22 home runs, drove in 86 runs and was among the league leaders in stolen bases once again, using his elite speed to pressure defenses nightly. Those numbers only begin to capture his overall impact.
Beyond the stat line, De La Cruz has already built an impressive track record. He is a two‑time All‑Star and has established himself as one of baseball’s most dynamic talents. Few players can change a game in as many ways, whether with a single swing or a sprint around the bases.
For the Reds, protecting that talent is important. While the dirt bike video ultimately proved harmless, it served as a reminder of the fine line between personality and precaution. De La Cruz’s charisma and flair are part of what make him special, and as long as he stays healthy, Cincinnati will gladly embrace both as they attempt to make another run in the MLB playoffs this year.