Cincinnati Reds All-Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz endured an emotional Sunday as he chose to play one day after the death of his older sister, Genelis De La Cruz Sanchez.

De La Cruz honored her memory with “RIP” written on his cleats and hat for the game against the host Chicago Cubs. When he homered in the sixth inning, De La Cruz patted his jersey over his heart, pointed skyward and clapped before he crossed home plate, then made a heart gesture with his hands.

According to media reports, family members in the Dominican Republic said Sanchez died after prolonged, unspecified health issues.

Elly De La Cruz, 23, declined to speak with reporters on Sunday before and after the game, which the Cubs won 7-3. He went 2-for-3 with two RBIs, two runs scored and one walk. The home run was his team-high 12th this season and 50th in 318 career games since his major league debut in June 2023.

“We just told him we will support whatever he needs to do,” Reds manager Terry Francona said before the game. “He wants to play today, and then we’ll go from there.”

The team declined to provide more details, per the player’s wishes.

After the game, Francona said it was a hard situation but De La Cruz wanted to be available for the team.

“We care so much about playing the game and winning. But in a hurry, you’re reminded of what’s really important,” Francona said. “I think everybody kind of kept their head on a swivel with him today just trying to take care of him.”

The Reds open a three-game home series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday. There was no word early Monday on the availability of De La Cruz.

–Field Level Media