Atlanta, GA – Venezuelan star Ronald Acuña Jr. is about to rejoin the Atlanta Braves this weekend, after a recovery period from a left knee injury.
Acuña, who was removed from the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers team’s lineup on Thursday, will be activated by the main team before the start of the series against the San Diego Padres this Friday at Truist Park.
The return of the current National League Most Valuable Player in 2023 comes just one year after the injury that kept him out of action. He is expected to retake his position as the team’s leadoff hitter, providing a significant injection of offensive energy to Atlanta, which has experienced challenges in that position during his absence.
With a remarkable offensive line of .293/.384/.533 as a leadoff hitter throughout his career, Acuña has proven to be one of the most effective in this role. His presence will not only boost the team’s overall performance, but also enhance the performance of key hitters like Austin Riley, Marcell Ozuna, and Matt Olson.
In addition to his offensive impact, Acuña integrates into a solid outfield defense, alongside Michael Harris II and Eli White. His power at the plate and his arm remain elite tools, although he could limit his game on the bases after two knee surgeries.
Rehabilitation training and matches have shown a strengthened Acuña, with notable power that was evident since spring training. Expectations are high, anticipating that he could connect more than 20 home runs in the remainder of the season.
The return of Ronald Acuña Jr. marks a new stage for the Braves, who will once again have their central figure, both on and off the field.
