Superstar Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is once again battling back from a devastating knee injury.
During a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates last May, Acuña tore the ACL in his left knee and underwent season-ending surgery. He was limited to just 49 games in 2024.
This marks the second time in his career that Acuña has torn an ACL. The first occurred in July 2021 when he injured his right knee, forcing him to miss the Braves’ World Series championship run.
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Atlanta Braves’ Ronald Acuna Jr. says he’s 90-95% recovered
With Braves players now in camp for Spring Training, Acuña provided an encouraging update on his recovery. The 2023 National League MVP, who made history that season as MLB’s first player to record 40 home runs and 70 stolen bases, told reporters his left knee is 90 to 95% recovered.
“I feel great,” Acuña said, via ESPN.com. “When they tell me I need to be there that day, I’ll be there.”
Despite the optimistic progress, Acuña will still miss some playing time. The Athletic previously reported that he will be sidelined for the first month of 2025.
In his absence, Jarred Kelenic and Bryan De La Cruz will split time in right field, while recently-signed outfielder Jurickson Profar will man left. Michael Harris II remains entrenched in center.
In seven seasons with Atlanta, Acuña has posted impressive numbers: a .289/.379/.525 slash line, 139 OPS+, 165 home runs, and 196 stolen bases.
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