Atlanta Braves fans have eagerly awaited the return of former NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., whose absence over the past year has been deeply felt. His impact on the lineup is significant, as he’s one of the premier hitters in the game, and supporters are eager to watch him back in action.
While the team initially hoped he’d be back by mid-May, the start of the month has come with no new updates, creating the sense that his return may be delayed even further.
Ronald Acuña Jr. still disappointingly has no timetable for return to Braves lineup
Two weeks ago, Ronald Acuña Jr. was given the green light by doctors to ramp up baseball activities, including running with quick stops and directional changes. Since then, he’s been in Florida working out, but updates on his progress have been limited.
Today, MLB and Braves insider Mark Bowman reported that Acuña is still working on strengthening his quadriceps and remains without a timeline for a rehab assignment. Bowman speculated that he may still be a couple of weeks away from beginning that process. This news is frustrating for fans, as it now seems likely Acuña won’t return until late May or even early June.
Despite the team’s recent success without him, getting Acuña back would be a huge boost. MLB Network’s Mark DeRosa recently made a puzzling comment, suggesting Acuña’s return could either carry the team or “crater” it. That remark likely stems from past tension between Acuña and manager Brian Snitker, but it feels like an odd criticism for a player of Acuña’s caliber.
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Even if he needs time to find his rhythm, Acuña’s career numbers—.289 average, 165 home runs, 417 RBIs, 141 wRC+, and 28.3 WAR—prove he’s a dynamic talent. His return will almost certainly inject energy into the lineup and elevate the Braves’ offense.
