The 2024 Silver Slugger Award finalists have been announced, and two names stand out for the Cincinnati Reds: Jonathan India and Elly De La Cruz. Both players have had standout seasons and have earned recognition as finalists in the National League for their respective positions. Their achievements on the field not only reflect their individual brilliance but also the rising competitiveness of the Reds’ lineup, which has been making waves in the National League.
Jonathan India: A Consistent Force at Second Base
Jonathan India, the Reds’ second baseman, has been a cornerstone of the team’s lineup since his arrival in 2021. Over the years, he has proven himself as one of the most consistent hitters in the National League, and his performance in 2024 was no different. India’s bat has been a driving force for the Reds, earning him a spot as a finalist for the Silver Slugger Award at second base.
What sets India apart is his ability to impact the game both with power and contact. In 2024, he posted impressive numbers with a combination of home runs, doubles, and a solid on-base percentage. His plate discipline has continued to improve, allowing him to work walks and get on base in key moments. India’s 2024 season was highlighted by his ability to hit in the clutch and maintain consistency throughout the campaign, becoming a trusted figure in the Reds’ offense.
While India may not have the raw power numbers of some of the league’s top hitters, his ability to maintain a strong on-base percentage and provide extra-base hits has been a key contributor to Cincinnati’s success. His leadership and experience at second base have also made him a stabilizing presence, and his name being mentioned among Silver Slugger finalists is a testament to his continued excellence.
Elly De La Cruz: The Future is Now
Elly De La Cruz has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in Major League Baseball. In his first full season with the Reds in 2024, De La Cruz has showcased the kind of power-speed combination that makes him a legitimate superstar in the making. Known for his blistering speed and raw power, De La Cruz has transformed the Reds’ offense, adding a dynamic threat at shortstop that is rare in today’s game.
What makes De La Cruz’s season so remarkable is his ability to produce in nearly every facet of the game. He’s among the league leaders in home runs, RBIs, and stolen bases, and his athleticism has allowed him to turn routine plays into highlight-reel moments. With a swing that generates impressive exit velocity, De La Cruz can send balls over the fence with ease, and his speed on the base paths makes him a constant threat to steal bases or stretch a single into a double.
The 2024 season has been a defining year for the 22-year-old, as he has firmly planted himself among the game’s best at shortstop. His ability to impact games on both sides of the ball—offense and defense—has earned him the recognition of being named a finalist for the Silver Slugger Award. While De La Cruz’s youth and occasional inconsistency at the plate have led to some growing pains, his overall offensive output has made him one of the top shortstops in the league.
The Reds’ Bright Future
The recognition of both Jonathan India and Elly De La Cruz as 2024 Silver Slugger finalists highlights the promising future of the Cincinnati Reds. With a potent combination of veteran leadership and emerging star power, the Reds are building an offense that has the potential to be one of the best in the National League for years to come. For both India and De La Cruz, being named Silver Slugger finalists is an acknowledgment of their exceptional contributions in 2024 and sets the stage for even greater achievements in the seasons ahead.
As the Reds continue to develop their core, India’s consistent excellence and De La Cruz’s explosive potential could be the driving forces behind a new era of success in Cincinnati. Regardless of whether they take home the Silver Slugger Award this season, their place among the league’s best hitters is undeniable. The 2024 season has been a huge step forward for both players and for the future of the Reds.
