Braves Star Doing His Best to Keep Team in Postseason Hunt
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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The Atlanta Braves knew they'd be awaiting the return of both Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. at some point in the first half of the season.
Strider has not been nearly as efficient as Atlanta would've hoped, but the same cannot be said about Acuña, the 2023 NL MVP.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 18: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a lead-off home run during the first inning against the New York Mets at Truist Park on June 18,...
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 18: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a lead-off home run during the first inning against the New York Mets at Truist Park on June 18, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by) MoreAcuña has been on a tear since returning to the Braves lineup May 23. His first at-bat back resulted in a 467-foot home run off San Diego Padres right-hander Nick Pivetta. That swing proved that despite the time off, Acuña had not missed a beat, and his talent was still up there with the game's best.
467 feet and 115.5 mph on the first pitch he saw 😳
Ronald Acuña Jr. wasted NO TIME in his return last night 😤
(MLB x @googlecloud) pic.twitter.com/lEvvGQpFYL — MLB Stats (@MLBStats) May 24, 2025
Since his debut, Acuña has been one of the best players in the league. In 82 at-bats, he has a .390 average, .495 OPB and 1.215 OPS.
Acuña has three doubles, eight home runs, 14 RBIs, 19 walks and a stolen base. His presence alone in the Braves lineup has kept them alive in what looked like a lost season.
First pitch.
Ronald Acuña Jr. was ready 😤 pic.twitter.com/bOFdUk70pY — MLB (@MLB) June 18, 2025
With this season's All-Star Game in Atlanta, Acuña will undoubtedly be a top choice for a starting outfield spot, and he may very well be deserving of one despite missing the first two months of the season.
He currently ranks sixth among outfielders in voting and with continued excellence at the plate and on defense, he may play his way right into the All-Star Game at his home stadium while helping Atlanta make a miraculous push at a playoff spot.
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