TJ Friedl Applauds Elly De La Cruz’s Heartfelt Message to Reds Coach: “That’s Leadership”

TJ Friedl Applauds Elly De La Cruz’s Heartfelt Message to Reds Coach: “That’s Leadership”

TJ Friedl Applauds Elly De La Cruz’s Heartfelt Message to Reds Coach: “That’s Leadership”

In the world of professional sports, leadership often transcends the confines of the playing field. It manifests in moments of vulnerability, in words of encouragement, and in actions that inspire those around you. A recent incident involving Cincinnati Reds teammates TJ Friedl and Elly De La Cruz exemplifies this form of leadership, highlighting the profound impact of a simple, heartfelt message.

The Context: A Season of Change

The 2025 MLB season marked a period of transition for the Cincinnati Reds. With the appointment of Terry Francona as the new manager, the team was poised for a fresh start. Francona, a seasoned leader with two World Series championships under his belt, brought with him a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the team’s future .

Central to this vision was Elly De La Cruz, the young shortstop whose dynamic playstyle had already made him a standout in the league. In a conversation with Francona, De La Cruz expressed his aspirations not just to be a good player, but to become the best player in baseball on the best team in baseball . This ambition resonated deeply with Francona, who saw in De La Cruz the potential for greatness, both on and off the field.

The Heartfelt Message

As the season progressed, De La Cruz’s commitment to his personal and professional growth remained unwavering. In a poignant moment, he approached Francona with a message that would leave a lasting impression on the veteran manager. The message was simple yet powerful: “Nunca te rindas,” meaning “Never give up.”

This phrase, taught to Francona by De La Cruz during a 20-minute conversation in Francona’s office, encapsulated the essence of perseverance and resilience. It was more than just a motivational saying; it was a testament to De La Cruz’s character and his dedication to fostering a culture of determination within the team .

TJ Friedl’s Perspective

TJ Friedl, a fellow teammate, witnessed this exchange and was profoundly moved by De La Cruz’s gesture. In a candid interview, Friedl remarked, “That’s leadership.” His words underscored the significance of De La Cruz’s actions—not just as a player, but as a leader who leads by example and inspires others through his words and deeds.

Friedl’s acknowledgment highlights a crucial aspect of leadership: the ability to uplift and motivate those around you. In a sport where individual performance is often celebrated, De La Cruz’s focus on collective growth and unity stands out as a model for aspiring leaders.

The Impact on the Team

The ripple effect of De La Cruz’s message extended beyond the confines of the locker room. His words resonated with his teammates, instilling a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The Reds, under Francona’s guidance and De La Cruz’s leadership, embarked on a journey characterized by resilience and camaraderie.

The team’s performance reflected this newfound spirit. Players exhibited a heightened sense of accountability and support for one another, translating into improved on-field results. The Reds’ success became a testament to the power of leadership that is rooted in empathy, encouragement, and unwavering commitment.

A Broader Lesson

The incident involving De La Cruz and Francona serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of leadership that goes beyond tactical expertise and physical prowess. It emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, communication, and the ability to inspire others through actions that reflect core values.

In a world where success is often measured by statistics and accolades, the story of De La Cruz’s heartfelt message reminds us that true leadership is about uplifting others, fostering a positive environment, and leading with integrity. It is about moments that may seem small but have the power to create lasting change.

Conclusion

As the Cincinnati Reds continue their journey through the 2025 season, the legacy of Elly De La Cruz’s heartfelt message endures. It serves as a beacon for current and future players, illustrating that leadership is not confined to titles or positions but is embodied in actions that inspire and uplift others.

In the words of TJ Friedl, “That’s leadership.” And indeed, it is.