"Let's see what you got" - Elly De La Cruz puts Reds teammate Alexis Díaz's English to test in post-game interview after Yankees shutout

The Cincinnati Reds kicked off July on a high note, sweeping the AL’s top team, the New York Yankees. It brought their record to 42-45. The Dominican star Elly De La Cruz made some great contributions in the series, going 3-for-12 with four runs and two RBIs, including a home run in the series opener.

However, Cruz’s service isn’t limited only to his on-field performances. He supports his teammates off the field as well. Reds’ closer Alexis Diaz, who shut the first two games at Yankee Stadium, was aided by Cruz during his post-game interview on Wednesday.

Cruz encouraged the Puerto Rican All-Star reliever to give his interview in English, his non-fluent language, despite having an interpreter available.

“I wanna see how his English going,” Cruz said, pointing to Diaz.

Which Diaz replied:

“My English is pretty good. It’s better than last year in my first year. But I need Jorge (his interpreter) translating.”

Cruz then tested his teammate’s words.

“Let’s see what you got. … You were sacred in the moment against Soto? You were a little bit nervous or pretty hyped?” he asked Diaz.

Diaz took over the mound in the final inning, replacing Justin Wilson. He faced Austin Wells and Anthony Volpe, getting them out with a double play before facing one of the Yankees’ top sluggers, Juan Soto. With two outs, Soto was caught by left fielder Spencer Steer and Diaz successfully closed the game without giving up a single hit.

“Never nervous,” Diaz confidently replied.

“That’s my guy,” Cruz praised him.

Diaz has yet to earn his first run since facing the Milwaukee Brewers in mid-June.

Cincinnati Reds have a tough road ahead for their playoff destination

The Cincinnati Reds are working hard to earn a playoff spot in their current condition. In the AL Central, they are closely following the St. Louis Cardinals (45-41) for the second spot, while aiming for the top spot held by the Brewers (52-35).

Unfortunately, none of the Reds stars got any All-Star starter invitations from the NL section this year. However, the reserve list is yet to be announced, and although the competition will be high, Elly De La Cruz may still receive an invitation to the Midseason Classic for the first time.

They’ll next face the Detriot Tigers at Great American Ball Park starting Saturday for a three-game series, hoping to close the gap to strengthen their postseason candidacy.