Atlanta Braves superstar outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is set to undergo a crucial reevaluation of his injured left knee next week—an important step in his recovery following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery last year.
Acuña, who suffered the ACL tear on May 26 and underwent surgery on June 6, will travel to Los Angeles for the medical assessment, as confirmed Thursday by Braves manager Brian Snitker. The evaluation will help doctors determine how much progress Acuña has made and whether he is ready to advance to the next phase of his rehabilitation, which includes more physically demanding on-field activities.
While Ronald Acuña has resumed live batting practice and continues to display his offensive prowess, he has not yet been cleared for running drills that involve sudden stops, starts, or changes of direction—movements essential to both his position and playing style. Notably, the 27-year-old slugger has not run out of the batter’s box during his workouts, highlighting the team’s measured approach to his recovery.
Acuña’s gradual return remains on schedule
“They just have to check him out and sign off on it before he can do that,” Snitker told ESPN.com. “And I think this was just part of the plan initially. I don’t think he’s going to rush it or anything. This has been the case from the get-go.”
Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves walks off the field with trainers after an apparent injury in the first inning during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on May 26, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
Snitker’s comments emphasize the Braves’ long-term focus, reinforcing that Acuña’s return will be dictated by medical clearance rather than urgency, as the team prioritizes his full recovery over short-term results.
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Acuña’s injury cut short a season in which he had played just 49 games, batting .250 with four home runs—a noticeable drop-off compared to his electrifying 2023 MVP campaign, when he hit .337 with 41 home runs and 73 stolen bases. His absence has been felt sharply this year, with the Braves struggling offensively and losing nine of their first 11 games through Thursday, ranking near the bottom of the league in runs scored.
When could Acuña return?
“It’s going to be about, just like other guys that miss spring training, getting his body in shape when he gets cleared,” Snitker added, signaling that Acuña’s return will also involve building back game readiness.
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Next week’s reevaluation will be a pivotal moment in determining the timeline for Acuña’s full return to action—and when the Braves can once again count on the spark, speed, and superstar presence of their MVP.
