Throughout the 2024 season, the Atlanta Braves have been plagued by injuries. They were already without their great starting pitcher, Spencer Strider, when they received another devastating blow over the weekend. Ronald Acuna Jr., an All-Star outfielder, will now join him on the sideline for the duration of the season. On Sunday, he injured his knee and tore his ACL. While jogging the bases, he collapsed to the ground between second and third base after his left knee buckled during an attempted delayed steal.
Ronald Acuna Jr. has torn his ACL for the second time in his career. Three years ago, he tore his right ACL while trying to grab a ball in right field. This is a significant blow for MLB fans and the Atlanta Braves as he is one of baseball’s top players.
The Atlanta Braves were among the preseason favorites to win the World Series. When Ronald Acuna Jr. suffered his first knee injury in 2021, Atlanta nearly made the postseason but won the World Series. Through 49 games this season, he has not had the same MVP effect as he did in 2023. He was slicing only.250/.351/.365, with four home runs, 15 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases. His defense has also been a source of worry, with him rated below-average this season.
The Atlanta Braves are now 30-20 on the season, tied for ninth most victories in baseball. However, they trail the Philadelphia Phillies, who hold baseball’s best record, by 6.0 games in the NL East race. Despite his problems in 2023, replacing Ronald Acuna Jr. will not be easy. The Atlanta Braves will need to work as a team, as some players have performed below expectations in recent seasons.
