Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz will likely rejoin the lineup Tuesday after a 19-game absence due to a strained right hamstring. Manager Terry Francona confirmed the pending move Monday, noting De La Cruz participated in batting practice before the series opener against Milwaukee. The 23-year-old infielder completed three rehabilitation starts with Triple-A Louisville, collecting two hits and a home run in eight at-bats.

De La Cruz's return ends a frustrating stretch that began June 1, when hamstring tightness forced him from a game against Atlanta. His exit snapped a remarkable 276-game consecutive streak - the sixth-longest in franchise history since 1961. Before the injury, he maintained a .280 batting average with 12 home runs, serving as one of Cincinnati's most consistent offensive threats. After homering in his first rehab game Friday, De La Cruz texted Francona expressing readiness, though the team opted for a cautious approach.

The Reds sit at 37-39, occupying last place in the NL Central despite taking two of three from New York over the weekend. Cincinnati desperately needs De La Cruz's speed and power to spark their struggling offense. His presence in the lineup provides a significant boost as the club attempts to climb out of the division basement.

De La Cruz's comeback represents more than just statistical improvement. His electrifying play and base-running threat transforms how opposing pitchers approach the Reds. The shortstop's return should immediately elevate Cincinnati's playoff odds in a competitive division race.