The Atlanta Braves are seeing encouraging signs as star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. inches closer to returning to the major league lineup, while pitcher Spencer Strider has been reinstated to the rotation.
Acuña is actively progressing through his rehab assignment with the Braves’ Triple-A affiliate, Gwinnett.
Acuña has shown promising form in his rehab games, going 4-for-9 with a home run, six walks, and six runs scored over four games. He is gradually increasing his time in the field as he prepares for a comeback.
After playing just 49 games last season, a sharp decline from his breakout 2023 campaign – where he belted 41 home runs and swiped 73 bases – Acuña has been carefully eased back following a second major injury.
The Braves have taken a more cautious approach with his ACL recovery, which is now a 12-month process, compared to the quicker timeline after his first ACL tear in July 2021.
While he returned to play by April 2022, he struggled with lingering effects throughout that season.
Reports indicate Acuña could make his return as soon as May 23, possibly in a game against the San Diego Padres.
Reflecting on his rehab progress, Acuña said: “I’m super excited to be back … I’m just peaked with anxiety, just trying to rush back to be able to play with the guys and rejoin the team.”
Acuña also addressed a recent social media post that sparked some controversy.
The post, which expressed frustration, led to conversations with manager Brian Snitker and teammates. Acuña took full responsibility for the incident.
“That was just a moment of frustration for me,” Acuña said. “Thankfully, I was able to apologize to Snit. I was in the wrong. I shouldn’t have done that. But thankfully, I was able to apologize to Snit to his face, to apologize to my teammates. We’re just turning the page and moving on.”
Acuña also expressed a commitment to accountability moving forward.
“I talked to them man-to-man and admitted that I was wrong. (And) I told them I wouldn’t have any excuses. I took accountability for it. We have a really good relationship. I think we’ll be able to move on just fine,” he said.
Meanwhile, Spencer Strider is back in the Braves’ rotation, bolstering the team’s pitching depth as they aim to stay competitive in a tough National League East division.
What are your thoughts on Acuña’s impending return to the Majors? … Now at 24-24, can you see a healthy Braves team making a legitimate run at the World Series???
