The Atlanta Braves are facing another setback as Ronald Acuña Jr. is set to join the injured list for 10 days. This news comes after Acuña made an early exit during the Braves' loss in Kansas City, as reported by various sources including David O’Brien of The Athletic. The club has confirmed the injury is due to right Achilles tightness, a concern that has significant implications for the team's performance.
Following the game, noted MLB reporter Mark Bowman observed that Acuña was seen in a walking boot, signaling the seriousness of the situation. This injury adds to what has been a challenging season for the Braves, who currently find themselves 16 games under .500. The team's struggles are compounded by the likelihood of trading key players such as Raisel Iglesias and Marcell Ozuna in the upcoming days, as the Braves look to rebuild and refocus.
Despite the team's overall struggles, Ronald Acuña Jr. has been a shining star in the lineup. Since returning from his second ACL tear, he has demonstrated impressive stats, hitting .306/.429/.577 with 14 home runs over 55 games. His ability to perform at such a high level after a serious injury showcases his talent and determination, making this latest setback even more frustrating for both the player and the franchise.
While Acuña's injury is undoubtedly a significant blow, it is not expected to alter the Braves' plans leading up to the trade deadline. With the team already out of contention for the playoffs, management is prepared to move forward with trades involving their impending free agents. It is clear that the Braves will not entertain offers for Acuña, as he remains the face of the franchise.
The team has indicated that they will provide a timeline for Acuña's recovery after he undergoes further testing in the coming days. Given his previous injuries, the Braves are understandably cautious about rushing him back into action. As the season progresses, the focus will be on ensuring Acuña's long-term health rather than risking another lower body injury during this challenging season.
