It is a vital growth for the Braves, who began this season 0-7 however have since evened out at 24-25 via their first 49 video games of the season. With Acuna Jr. and beginning pitcher Spencer Strider getting back from damage as properly, Atlanta seems to be poised to proceed its cost towards one other postseason berth.
Importantly, the four-time All-Star additionally returns throughout outfielder Jurickson Profar’s 80-game PED suspension, which has shortened the Braves’ outfield depth this season and offers them one fewer choice within the playoffs, ought to they make it.
However what can we realistically count on from Acuna Jr., particularly, upon re-acclimating to sport motion?
First, it appears protected to imagine he’ll reclaim his leadoff spot within the Braves’ lineup, setting the desk for the likes of first baseman Matt Olson, third baseman Austin Riley, designated hitter Marcell Ozuna and others. A harmful lineup simply obtained that rather more potent with the 27-year-old’s dynamic mixture of energy and velocity.
On the latter, do not count on Acuna Jr. to run wild like he did in 2023 when he stole 73 baggage; Atlanta will greater than doubtless be cautious in easing again its MVP-winning outfielder on the bottom paths. Preserving Acuna Jr.’s well being might be paramount, particularly since he is solely performed in 150 or extra video games twice in his seven-year profession.
The Braves may also stay up for having Acuna Jr.’s stellar glove work and cannon arm again in proper discipline, forming an elite defensive trio with Eli White and Michael Harris II.
Regardless of lacking a lot of Atlanta’s postseason runs during the last a number of years, the Braves (and the sport of baseball, for that matter) are undeniably higher when Acuna Jr. is wholesome and taking part in at his greatest.
