Ronald Acuña Jr., the Atlanta Braves’ star outfielder and 2023 National League MVP, is set for a pivotal evaluation of his surgically repaired left knee early next week in Los Angeles. This assessment will determine the next steps in his rehabilitation process following the ACL tear he sustained on May 26, 2024, during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Acuña underwent surgery on June 6, 2024, and has since been progressing through his recovery plan.
Manager Brian Snitker indicated that while Acuña has resumed batting practice, he has not yet been cleared for base running or lateral movements. The upcoming evaluation aims to assess his readiness for these activities, which are crucial for his return to full gameplay. Snitker emphasized that this step is part of the planned rehabilitation process and that there is no intention to rush Acuña’s return.
Acuña’s injury in 2024 limited him to 49 games, during which he posted a .250 batting average with four home runs and 15 RBIs. This was a stark contrast to his historic 2023 season, where he achieved the first 40-home run and 70-stolen base season in MLB history, batting .337 with 41 homers and 73 steals. His performance that year earned him unanimous MVP honors and solidified his status as one of the league’s premier talents.
This is not Acuña’s first experience with a significant knee injury; he previously tore his right ACL in July 2021, which sidelined him for the remainder of that season. Despite these setbacks, Acuña has maintained impressive career statistics, including a .289 batting average, .379 on-base percentage, .525 slugging percentage, 165 home runs, 417 RBIs, and 196 stolen bases over 722 games. He is also a four-time All-Star, reflecting his consistent impact on the field.
The Braves are hopeful that the upcoming evaluation will clear Acuña for more intensive rehabilitation activities, bringing him closer to rejoining the team’s lineup. His return is highly anticipated, as his dynamic presence is expected to significantly bolster the Braves’ performance in the ongoing season
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