The Atlanta Braves got a major lift recently as 2023 National League MVP Ronald Acuna Jr. made his long-awaited return to the field.
Acuna, sidelined since May of last year with a torn ACL, wasted no time making an impact. In his first at-bat back against the San Diego Padres, he crushed the very first pitch he saw over the fence for a home run – then followed it up with another homer in Game 2 of the series.
This electrifying comeback couldn’t have come at a better time for the Braves. After a disastrous 0-7 start that threatened to derail their season, Atlanta is eager to climb back into the NL playoff picture with Acuna anchoring the lineup.
The significance of Acuna to the Braves cannot be overstated.
As a matter of fact, former MLB player Mark DeRosa recently weighed in on Acuna’s standing within the franchise, stating: “I would argue he’s the most talented player to ever put the Braves uniform on.”
Though many fans may still hold legends like Hank Aaron and Chipper Jones as the greatest Braves of all time, Acuna’s dominance in recent seasons has undeniably cemented his place among the franchise’s elite.
Acuna’s 2023 campaign was one of the most remarkable in MLB history, and his early performance since returning from injury shows he hasn’t missed a beat.
With key players like Acuna and pitcher Spencer Strider returning to health, Braves fans are hoping for a strong second-half surge could to turn the season around.
History shows that postseason success often comes down to peaking at the right time rather than dominating the entire regular season. Perhaps the Braves will end up hitting their stride down the stretch.
One thing is for sure: Atlanta is much more dangerous with Acuna in the lineup.
Having said that, do you agree with DeRosa that he’s the most talented player in Braves history???
