NORTH PORT, Fla. — Spring training always comes with its fair share of storylines, but few are generating as much buzz as Ronald Acuña Jr.’s power display at Braves camp. After undergoing his second ACL surgery in just three years, the 2023 National League MVP is sending baseballs into orbit during batting practice, leaving fans and teammates in awe.
The Road Back from Another ACL Tear
Acuña’s journey over the past few years has been anything but smooth. He tore his right ACL just before the 2021 All-Star break, forcing him to miss the remainder of the season. Then, last May, his left ACL gave out, cutting short another promising year. The latest injury came at a time when he was rewriting the Braves’ record books, swiping 73 bases and belting 41 homers in a historic 2023 campaign.
Now 27, Acuña is once again fighting his way back to full strength. While there’s uncertainty about when exactly he’ll return to game action, one thing is becoming clear—his bat is as dangerous as ever.
Power on Full Display
Over the past couple of weeks, Acuña’s batting practice sessions have been nothing short of a spectacle. He’s crushing balls deep into the Florida sky, reminding everyone why he’s one of the most feared hitters in baseball.
Braves manager Brian Snitker has taken notice.
“He’s probably as strong as he’s ever been,” Snitker said, emphasizing Acuña’s physical condition.
That’s an encouraging sign for the Braves, who are hoping to see their star outfielder regain his power stroke while adapting to a slightly different playing style post-injury.
What Could Change in His Game?
One question on everyone’s mind: Will Acuña still be a threat on the basepaths?
- In 2023, he became the first player in MLB history to record a 40-homer, 70-stolen base season.
- With two knee surgeries behind him, it’s uncertain whether he’ll return to that level of aggressive baserunning.
- While his speed may take a hit, his ability to hit for power remains undeniable.
Even if his stolen base numbers drop, the Braves won’t complain if Acuña continues to deliver 40-homer seasons.
A Look at His Full Seasons
Injuries and the COVID-shortened 2020 season have prevented Acuña from playing a full schedule in most of his career. However, when healthy, he has shown what he’s capable of:
| Year | Games Played | Home Runs | Stolen Bases |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 156 | 41 | 37 |
| 2020 | 46 | 14 | 8 |
| 2021 | 82 | 24 | 17 |
| 2022 | 119 | 15 | 29 |
| 2023 | 159 | 41 | 73 |
If history is any indication, a healthy Acuña means production at an elite level. Even if the stolen bases decrease, his bat alone could make him a top offensive player in the league.
Braves’ Expectations for 2025
Acuña’s health is just one piece of the puzzle as Atlanta eyes another deep postseason run. The Braves have one of the most talented lineups in baseball, featuring stars like Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies. Adding Acuña back into the mix would be a game-changer, even if he’s not running as much as he used to.
For now, all eyes remain on his recovery. But if his BP sessions are any indication, Ronald Acuña Jr. is still very much a force to be reckoned with.
