Just as things seemed to be trending upward for the Atlanta Braves on the field, off-field drama is threatening to disrupt that momentum.
Manager Brian Snitker and superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. are at the center of controversy after Acuña reacted to Snitker’s handling of Jarred Kelenic’s lack of hustle during Saturday’s game. Kelenic, who was thrown out after failing to run hard, wasn’t disciplined—something that didn’t sit well with Acuña.
Acuña voiced his frustration on X (formerly Twitter), replying to a post about the incident by saying he would’ve been benched for the same behavior. His comment—which was quickly deleted—hit hard, especially since he’s been benched for similar actions in the past.
Rather than ease tensions after the Braves’ win over the Twins on Sunday, Snitker made matters worse. When asked about the situation, he stood firm, repeatedly stating that “every situation is different.” That response, however, raised more questions—particularly when he admitted he didn’t notice Kelenic’s lack of effort in real time and only realized the issue the next morning.
Snitker is right in saying not all situations are identical—he noted Kelenic is usually known for his hustle—but the lack of consistency in holding players accountable, especially when it involves a superstar like Acuña, has stirred unrest. Acuña, currently rehabbing from an ACL tear, clearly feels he’s being held to a different standard—and he’s not wrong to question it.
With the Braves finally showing signs of life after a dreadful 5–13 start—sweeping the Twins and inching back into the NL East race—the last thing they need is internal conflict between their manager and franchise cornerstone.
This situation also reignites an ongoing conversation around Snitker’s leadership. For over a year now, some have questioned whether it’s time for a new voice in the Braves’ clubhouse. And moments like this—where a chance to smooth things over turns into a bigger rift—only add fuel to that fire.
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