Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz is poised for a rehab assignment this weekend if his recent workout goes as planned. The 23‑year‑old, sidelined since June 1 with a right hamstring strain, ran the bases and fielded grounders before Monday’s loss to the New York Mets. He will repeat the drill Tuesday before a final call. He hopes to prove his health before the roster deadline.

Manager Terry Francona indicated the likely destination would be Triple‑A Louisville, noting the club’s competitive environment suits a player eager to return. The Reds’ Class‑A affiliate in Dayton also travels this week, but Francona prefers the higher level to test De La Cruz’s speed and reaction. He stressed the decision hinges on the shortstop’s comfort, not convenience. The assignment could start Saturday night.

De La Cruz left the May 31 game against Atlanta with the hamstring issue after a fifth‑inning hit, ending a 276‑game streak that ranked sixth longest for a Reds player since 1961. Before the injury he was batting .280 with 12 homers, a production line the club cannot afford to lose. Francona’s final word will determine when Cincinnati regains a key offensive spark.