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Bobby Witt Jr. has a convincing edge over the Reds’ rising star Elly De La Cruz

Bobby Witt Jr. was given a run for his money to be considered the top shortstop in the game, but the Kansas City Royals' star still has a clear advantage.

By Matthew Swigonski · Kings of Kauffman

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 4:37 PM

Key Things to Know

Matthew Swigonski argues Bobby Witt Jr. holds a convincing overall edge over rising star Elly De La Cruz.
Witt posted a 17.3% strikeout rate in 2026, striking out 109 times compared to De La Cruz's 175.
De La Cruz produced a 30/30 campaign with 30 doubles and a career-high .880 OPS in 2026.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Matthew Swigonski argues that Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. maintains a decisive edge over Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz. Despite De La Cruz recording a breakout 30/30 season with an .880 OPS in 2026, Swigonski highlights Witt's plate discipline and elite fielding as the deciding factors between the two elite shortstops.

According to the analysis, Witt posted a significantly lower 17.3% strikeout rate compared to De La Cruz's 175 strikeouts across 2026. Swigonski also emphasizes defensive impact, noting Witt led all shortstops with 24 Outs Above Average and registered 8 Defensive Runs Saved, whereas De La Cruz recorded -8 DRS.

Read the full article on Kings of Kauffman

Bobby Witt Jr. has a convincing edge over the Reds’ rising star Elly De La Cruz

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