Cincinnati Reds star shortstop Elly​ de La Cruz ‌has turned down a 10-year contract extension offer from the team,according to Nick Krall,the‌ Reds’ president of baseball operations. The offer reportedly exceeded⁢ the 10-year, $225 ⁢million contract signed by Joey Votto in 2012 MLB.com. De La Cruz has entrusted his agent, ⁤Scott Boras, to ⁣handle all⁣ negotiations,‍ indicating a potential preference for testing free agency in 2029,⁤ when he will ‌first ​be eligible.

The 24-year-old Dominican native ⁢has quickly become a fan favourite since his debut,⁢ showcasing⁣ a rare combination of power⁤ and speed. He won’t‍ be arbitration-eligible until​ 2027, giving the Reds several more years ⁣to perhaps negotiate a deal.However,De La Cruz appears ⁣focused on maximizing his earning potential.