In a groundbreaking move, the MLB The Show video game franchise has announced that for the first time in its nearly two-decade history, a Cincinnati Reds player will be featured on the game's cover. Elly De La Cruz, the dynamic shortstop for the Reds, has been chosen as one of the three athletes to grace the cover of this popular baseball video game. Joining De La Cruz are two other burgeoning stars of the MLB – Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes and Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson.
With the unveiling of Elly De La Cruz as the cover athlete for MLB The Show, fans in Cincinnati are buzzing with excitement and anticipation. This marks a significant moment for the Reds as they see one of their own players featured on such a prominent platform. The question on many fans' minds now revolves around the game's release date and what they can expect when it finally hits the shelves.
For avid gamers and baseball enthusiasts alike, the wait will soon be over as MLB The Show is scheduled to be released in the middle of March for both PlayStation and Xbox users. Early access to the game will kick off on March 14, offering players a sneak peek before the official release date of March 18. This launch timeline aligns with the usual schedule for the game's annual release, creating anticipation and excitement among fans eager to dive into the latest installment.
While De La Cruz is the first active Reds player to be featured on the cover of the MLB The Show video game, he follows in the footsteps of past stars like Ken Griffey Jr., a Cincinnati native who graced the cover post-retirement. At just 23 years old, De La Cruz has quickly risen to stardom, showcasing his prowess on the field with an impressive 2024 season that included 25 home runs and 67 stolen bases. His standout performance earned him a spot on the All-Star team and solidified his reputation as a top player in the National League.
The inclusion of Paul Skenes, the standout pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, alongside De La Cruz and Henderson on the cover of MLB: The Show 25 further adds to the excitement surrounding this year's release. Skenes, who was named the National League Rookie of the Year in 2024, brings a fresh perspective and talent to the game, captivating fans with his skill and potential.
Notably, this is the first time in the history of the MLB The Show series that multiple athletes from different teams are featured on the same cover. The decision to showcase rising stars from the Reds, Pirates, and Orioles reflects the game's commitment to celebrating diverse talents and highlighting emerging players across the league. This inclusive approach resonates with fans who follow these teams and provides a unique opportunity to engage with a broader range of players within the game.
As the countdown to the release of MLB: The Show 25 begins, fans can look forward to immersing themselves in the world of baseball gaming, experiencing the thrill of stepping onto the virtual diamond with their favorite players. The cover featuring De La Cruz, Skenes, and Henderson sets the stage for a dynamic and action-packed gaming experience that promises excitement, competition, and the chance to play as some of the most promising talents in Major League Baseball. Get ready to swing for the fences and slide into home plate as MLB: The Show 25 hits consoles this March.
