Ronald Acuña Jr. Set to Return to Braves Lineup Friday Against Padres
The Atlanta Braves announced Thursday that star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. will be activated from the 10-day injured list in time for Friday’s game at Truist Park against the San Diego Padres. This marks his first start since tearing his left ACL on May 26, 2024, during a steal attempt against the Pirates—his second ACL tear in under three years.
Acuña, now 27, previously tore his right ACL just before the 2021 All-Star break and returned in April 2022 after a lengthy rehab. This latest recovery was more cautious, taking nearly a full year. He’s been ramping up with Triple-A Gwinnett, where he’s posted a scorching .417 average, 1.465 OPS, and seven walks in 19 plate appearances.
“I’m super excited to be back,” Acuña said in a May 14 press conference. “I’ve just been anxious to rejoin the team.”
The reigning NL MVP made history in 2024 as the first MLB player to hit 40+ home runs and steal 70+ bases in a single season. Before his injury this year, however, he was off to a slower start, batting .250 with four homers and 16 steals.
In Acuña’s absence, the Braves shuffled several outfielders due to his injury and Jurickson Profar’s 80-game PED suspension. Michael Harris II held down center field, while Jarred Kelenic (since demoted), Bryan De La Cruz (claimed by the Yankees), and Eli White rotated in the corners. White has emerged as a key contributor, batting .274 with two home runs and 13 RBIs.
Manager Brian Snitker praised White’s emergence: “It’s great. You never know when a guy might click.”
White is expected to continue platooning with Alex Verdugo in left field until Profar returns.
How to Watch
Acuña’s return also marks his season debut on “Braves on Gray”, which broadcasts 15 games across the Southeast, including on Peachtree TV and Atlanta’s CW Network. Fans outside Atlanta can find local listings at BravesOnGray.com.
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