Jeff Francoeur, a former Major League outfielder and current Braves broadcaster, believes that Ronald Acuña Jr. must learn the true meaning of representing the Atlanta Braves—something he says he learned firsthand from Braves legends Hank Aaron and Bobby Cox. According to Francoeur, this is a lesson Acuña needs to take seriously and urgently.
In a radio interview this week, Francoeur didn’t hold back in his criticism of the All-Star outfielder. The controversy began over the weekend when Acuña made posts on social media that seemed to question both Braves manager Brian Snitker and teammate Jarred Kelenic. In one post, Acuña indirectly criticized Kelenic for not running out a ball with the expected intensity, adding, “If it were me, they would take me out of the game.” The tweet was later deleted.
Francoeur was quick to call out Acuña for his actions, saying that the 2023 NL MVP had publicly “buried” Kelenic. “And you got a guy who’s supposed to be your teammate,” Francoeur stated with clear disapproval. “Tweeting, probably out in LA, something that is completely meaningless and stupid.”
Francoeur appeals to professionalism and team values
Recalling a 2019 incident when Snitker pulled Acuña from a game for not running hard enough, Francoeur dismissed any suggestion that Snitker treated Kelenic’s situation differently for racial reasons. “Acuña was warned time after time after time,” Francoeur noted, emphasizing that Acuña had received multiple reminders before being pulled from the game. “Let’s talk, like, 10 times to run before he ever got yanked. This is the first time Jarred Kelenic has ever done it.”
Braves and team spirit
Francoeur, who shared a locker room with Braves greats like Chipper Jones, John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, and Freddie Freeman, highlighted the importance of professionalism and team spirit. While he acknowledged the importance of individual talent, he made it clear that being a “good teammate” is essential for success in the majors.
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“You’re making millions of dollars,” Francoeur said. “You’re getting to play a kid’s game. Be a good teammate and pull for your team.” His remarks underscore his belief in the value of unity and professionalism within a top-tier baseball team.
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