Disturbing Elly De La Cruz stat reveals the Reds' urgent need for help

Since August 17, Elly De La Cruz has been exceptional for the Cincinnati Reds, batting .366 with eight home runs and a 195 wRC+, accumulating 2.4 fWAR—the second-most among position players. However, the rest of the Reds' lineup has combined for just 0.1 fWAR during that same span, compared to 6.5 fWAR for the Chicago Cubs' supporting cast around Pete Crow-Armstrong. The Reds have gone 13-19 since mid-August and are eliminated from playoff contention, while several role players including Matt McLain, Jose Trevino, and JJ Bleday have posted negative WAR figures. The team needs to provide better offensive support around De La Cruz to remain competitive in the National League.

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