After a year of relentless recovery, Ronald Acuña Jr. is officially back. The Atlanta Braves star is scheduled to return to action on Friday night against the San Diego Padres at Truist Park, a moment fans have been anxiously awaiting.
Acuña’s return comes nearly one year after he tore his left ACL, marking his second major knee injury in just three years. This time, however, the Braves took a more conservative approach, allowing their franchise cornerstone the time he needed to fully recover.
The timing couldn’t be better for Atlanta. The Braves have struggled at the top of the lineup during Acuña’s absence, but his reinstatement promises to inject power, speed, and energy into the team’s offense — just when they need it most.
Braves make it official
Following Thursday’s 10-inning 8–7 loss to the Nationals, manager Brian Snitker confirmed that Acuña would be activated from the injured list in time for Friday’s series opener against San Diego. Acuña, who was scratched from Triple-A Gwinnett’s lineup in Louisville, used Thursday to rest and prepare for his return to the big league roster.
“They double-checked with him [pregame] and decided, rather than him playing a game tonight in Louisville and taking tomorrow off, [he’ll] take today off and come play with us tomorrow, [Friday]” Snitker said, according to MLB.com. “He feels ready, so that’ll be great.”
see also
Braves manager Brian Snitker delivers blunt verdict on Alex Verdugo’s impact in Atlanta
The Braves have seen a sharp drop-off in leadoff production in Acuña’s absence, slashing just .237/.279/.324. His return promises immediate improvement in that department.
Expectations for Acuña’s impact
Acuña brings much more than elite numbers. His presence is transformative — not just statistically but emotionally. In his career, he has posted a .293/.384/.533 line from the leadoff spot, an unparalleled mark among players with at least 2,000 plate appearances in that role.
SurveyHow big of an impact will Ronald Acuña Jr.'s return have on the Braves' 2025 season?
How big of an impact will Ronald Acuña Jr.'s return have on the Braves' 2025 season?
already voted 0 people
Even if he runs less than he did during his historic 40-70 season in 2023, Acuña’s combination of power, plate discipline, and arm strength still ranks among the league’s elite. “We know how electric that guy is,” Matt Olson said. “To get a guy back like that, it can only help you.”
see also
Mookie Betts, Dave Roberts address growing concerns as Dodgers’ skid hits four games
