The showdown between the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets at Truist Park featured one of the most thrilling defensive plays of the MLB season. In the top of the ninth inning, Ronald Acuña Jr. made a stunning catch in right field to rob Pete Alonso of an extra-base hit. But he didn’t stop there—Acuña quickly turned and fired to first base, doubling off Juan Soto, who had strayed too far off the bag.
The play shifted the momentum of the game and showcased Acuña’s elite instincts and arm strength under pressure. With the Braves fighting to stay in the National League Wild Card race, every opportunity matters—and this defensive highlight came at a critical moment.
After the game, Acuña emphasized his readiness for high-stakes situations: “It’s just about anticipating those plays and executing,” he said, according to MLB.com. “Fortunately, it played out like I wanted.”
How the play changed the game
Acuña’s double play halted a potential Mets rally and set the tone for the Braves’ offense. In the bottom of the tenth, Austin Riley delivered a sacrifice fly to drive in the winning run, sealing a dramatic 5–4 victory for Atlanta.
Reflecting on the team’s situation, Acuña added through an interpreter, “Every win matters,” he said. “Every win is important.” That mindset is exactly what Atlanta needs to stay competitive in a packed postseason race.
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Acuña and Soto: A competitive chapter
While not necessarily a rivalry, Ronald Acuña Jr. and Juan Soto continue to share the field in pivotal National League matchups. Their consistent impact on both sides of the ball makes every interaction notable, and this defensive play was another example of how high-level instincts can shift a game’s outcome.
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