According to a video shared by MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, Acuna has advanced to running bases, suggesting his return to the active roster is drawing closer. However, the organization has yet to establish a definitive target date, as manager Walt Weiss noted that he must clear the hurdle of playing the outfield before being activated.

Even without Acuna anchoring the lineup, the Braves have barely skipped a beat during the opening stretch of the regular season. Their performance proves that this powerhouse franchise is built to thrive, maintaining elite status with or without their star hitter in the mix.

Following an emotional series where Los Angeles Dodgers icon Freddie Freeman looked back on his career milestones, Atlanta is locked in on keeping its regular-season momentum alive. Adding a healthy Acuna back into the equation will only amplify its potent attack.

What is the expectation for Acuna’s return?

With the dynamic outfielder already checking boxes by running the bases, some analysts speculate that Acuña could be targeting a return for the upcoming series against the Washington Nationals, which is scheduled to kick off on May 22.

Ultimately, his activation will depend entirely on how his knee responds to outfield drills. Weiss emphasized that defensive tracking and lateral movement represent the final steps in his rehab progression for the Braves, who wrap up their current series against the Boston Red Sox on Sunday.

Acuna’s impact in the regular season

Before landing on the 10-day Injured List with a left hamstring strain on May 3, Acuna Jr. was having a relatively quiet power stretch by his standards, though his elite on-base skills remained perfectly intact.

Here are his official stats for the 2026 regular season:

Before Friday’s matchup, Braves manager Walt Weiss, who recenyly backed Acuña Jr, delivered a cautiously optimistic update on Acuña’s recovery timeline. “Acuña coming off the IL when eligible on Wednesday seems optimistic,” Weiss said, according to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman. “When asked, Weiss said Ronald still has some boxes to check. That being said, the fact he was doing some agility work today indicates his IL stint shouldn’t be too long.”

The update comes as encouraging news for Atlanta, which has managed to build early-season momentum despite uneven production from Acuña prior to his injury. Through 34 games, the 28-year-old posted a .252 batting average with a .362 on-base percentage, two home runs, nine RBIs, and a .740 OPS, while also leading MLB with four caught stealings—raising early questions about his base-running efficiency following multiple ACL recoveries.

Acuña Jr. progressing through rehab as Braves monitor recovery

Acuña’s injury occurred in early May during a game against the Colorado Rockies, when he attempted to beat out a ground ball and immediately grabbed his left hamstring. He was placed on the 10-day injured list shortly after, though initial MRI results brought relief to the organization by revealing no significant structural damage.

Since then, Acuña has begun ramping up baseball activity, including agility work on the field, signaling steady progress in his recovery. While his eligibility to return is approaching, Atlanta’s coaching staff is clearly prioritizing long-term health over an immediate activation, especially given his importance to the lineup.

The Braves understand that even without peak production from their superstar, they remain in a strong position within the National League standings. However, the expectation is that Acuña’s return could elevate the offense to another level once he is fully cleared.

Braves’ championship ceiling rises with potential Acuña return

Despite his current absence, Acuña’s track record underscores why his return is viewed as a potential turning point for Atlanta’s season. Across his career, he has accumulated a National League Rookie of the Year award, an MVP season during his historic 40-home run, 70-stolen base campaign, five All-Star selections, and three Silver Slugger awards.

For now, the focus remains on patience and progression. But the early signs suggest the Braves may not have to wait much longer to welcome their franchise cornerstone back into the lineup.

“He just hasn’t found that consistency where he gets rolling, but it will be loud when he does… He’s getting really close,” Weiss said after the game, via reporter Alison Mastrangelo. “Our offense has been really good, and we can dream big if Ronald gets rolling, it will be fun to watch.”

Acuña’s production has been solid but below his usual standards. Through 113 at-bats this season, he is hitting .248 with two home runs, nine RBIs, and six stolen bases, along with a .360 on-base percentage and .741 OPS. However, his recent performance—going 2-for-3 with two doubles, an RBI, and a run scored against Detroit—suggests signs of progress, especially after Acuña Jr. recently suffered a hit-by-pitch scare.

Braves winning with depth and balanced offense

Atlanta’s success during this stretch has been fueled by contributions across the lineup. In Tuesday’s win, Ozzie Albies delivered a two-run home run, while Mike Yastrzemski added two hits and an RBI to support the offense.

On the mound, Martin Perez (2-1) continued his strong form, allowing just two hits and striking out five while lowering his ERA to 2.22. The performance marked Atlanta’s 11th win in their last 13 games, reinforcing the team’s ability to generate results even without peak output from Acuña.

Acuña’s potential could elevate Braves further

Weiss’ comments reflect a broader organizational belief that Acuña’s breakout is imminent. His track record and recent signs of improvement point toward a likely surge that could significantly raise the team’s offensive ceiling. If Acuña returns to his typical level of production, the Braves could become an even more complete contender.

Braves manager Walt Weiss later delivered a reassuring update, confirming that Acuña did not suffer a serious injury. “Ronnie is OK. X-rays were negative. He’s going to be fine,” Weiss said, according to MLB.com. Acuña was hit on the left hand in the sixth inning and left the game as a precaution after initial swelling.

The Braves are already dealing with several pitching injuries from Spring Training, making any scare involving Acuña especially concerning. Atlanta also recently brought back Luke Williams on a familiar depth move, while improving its MLB-best record to 16 wins and sharing the top mark in baseball with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Braves take cautious approach with Acuña after hit-by-pitch

The Braves chose to remove Acuña from the game after noticing swelling in his hand. The decision was made to avoid any risk, even though early tests were encouraging.

“It was swelling up pretty good, so we just got him out of there,” Weiss explained. He also noted there were no immediate plans for an MRI, a positive sign given past injury concerns involving hand hits in the league.

Atlanta offense stays strong despite injury concern

Even with Acuña’s early exit, the Braves continued to perform at a high level on offense. Matt Olson delivered a key home run, while Michael Harris II and Drake Baldwin added important hits during a big scoring inning.

The team’s depth has been a major strength early in the season, helping them stay competitive even with injuries in the pitching staff. For now, the focus remains on Acuña’s recovery, with optimism that he could return to the lineup soon.

Venezuela had already secured its spot in the quarterfinals, but Acuña remained locked in on the game against Nicaragua. His performance helped the team secure its third win in Pool D and maintain momentum heading into one of the tournament’s biggest rivalry games.

“That’s part of my game,” Acuña said, according to MLB.com. “Sometimes I can hit a homer, sometimes I can steal a base, sometimes I can play defense. I can do it all.”

Acuña emphasizes key to beating Dominican Republic

With the win secured, attention now turns to Venezuela’s clash with the Dominican Republic national baseball team. The rivalry matchup will determine the next stage of the tournament, and Acuña believes controlling emotions will be crucial.

“It is important to manage the anxiety, the adrenaline,” Acuña said. “We’re going to have 40,000 people here at the stadium. There is a classic rivalry between both countries and we hope to win. We just have to control our emotions.”

In the build-up to the eagerly awaited clash between these teams, Acuna Jr. revealed a playful wager he made with Soto. “I’ve got a low-key bet going with Soto that nobody knows about. If the Dominican Republic wins, I’ll show up to the next game decked out in DR gear. But if Venezuela pulls it off, he’ll be the one sporting full Venezuela gear. That’s the bet!“ Acuna Jr. disclosed to Abriendo Sports.

This friendly wager adds an extra layer of excitement to the matchup between Venezuela and the Dominican Republic, scheduled for March 11. This game marks the final group stage showdown for both teams in the World Baseball Classic.

Soto and Acuna Jr.’s Teammates in the WBC

With this wager generating buzz around the upcoming showdown between Venezuela and the Dominican Republic, it’s worthwhile to examine the rosters each team will bring to the World Baseball Classic.

• Dominican Republic
  • Infielders: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B, Blue Jays), Ketel Marte (2B, Diamondbacks), Manny Machado (3B, Padres), Geraldo Perdomo (SS, Diamondbacks), Junior Caminero (3B/DH, Rays), Jeremy Peña (SS, Astros), Carlos Santana (1B, Guardians), Amed Rosario (UTIL, Yankees),
  • Outfielders: Juan Soto (LF, Mets), Fernando Tatis Jr. (RF, Padres), Julio Rodríguez (CF, Mariners), Oneil Cruz (LF/UTIL, Pirates), Johan Rojas (CF, Phillies),
  • Pitchers Starters: Cristopher Sanchez (Phillies), Sandy Alcantara (Marlins), Brayan Bello (Red Sox), Luis Severino (Athletics).
  • Relievers: Camilo Doval (Yankees), Carlos Estevez (Royals), Seranthony Domínguez (White Sox), Gregory Soto (Pirates), Abner Uribe (Brewers).
  • Catchers: Austin Wells (Yankees), Agustín Ramirez (Marlins).

• Venezuela
  • Infielders: Luis Arraez (1B/2B, Padres), Andres Gimenez (SS/2B), Gleyber Torres (2B, Tigers), Maikel Garcia (3B, Royals), Eugenio Suarez (3B, Diamondbacks), Ezequiel Tovar (SS, Rockies), Willson Contreras (1B/DH, Cardinals).
  • Outfielders: Ronald Acuna Jr. (RF, Braves), Jackson Chourio (LF/CF, Brewers), Wilyer Abreu (RF, Red Sox), Javier Sanoja (UTIL, Marlins),
  • Pitchers Starters: Ranger Suarez (Red Sox), Eduardo Rodriguez (Diamondbacks), Keider Montero (Tigers), Antonio Senzatela (Rockies).
  • Relievers: Jose Alvarado (Phillies), Daniel Palencia (Cubs), Eduard Bazardo (Mariners), Jose Butto (Mets), Angel Zerpa (Brewers).
  • Catchers: William Contreras (Brewers), Salvador Perez (Royals).

Acuña showed he is ready on the field as well. In Atlanta’s final Grapefruit League game, he stole two bases in the first inning and hit a grand slam in the third, helping the Braves beat the Boston Red Sox 15-8.

“I think it helped a lot,” Acuña said, according to MLB.com. “There’s good hitting and good pitching and a lot of superstars playing. The last World Baseball Classic, I didn’t have a good Baseball Classic, but there’s a new Baseball Classic this year. So I’m excited.”

Representing Venezuela in the WBC

Acuña will join teammates Ozzie Albies, Jurickson Profar, Chadwick Tromp, and Nacho Alvarez Jr. for the WBC. He expressed pride in representing his country: “Every time we put on the jersey that says Venezuela, I’m so proud. I want to do something special for my country, and I want to make everybody proud,” Acuña said.

Acuña’s performance and goals

Acuña’s 2023 season was historic, hitting .337 with 41 home runs, 73 stolen bases, and a 1.012 OPS after his first WBC experience. Few players in MLB history have reached similar numbers at age 25 or younger, including Albert Pujols and Vladimir Guerrero.

“We were born for this,” Acuña said. “The Dominican has a really good team, and so does the USA. But we have a really good team. We’ll play the game the right way and see what happens out there.”

The report came from Andrew Fillipponi on X. “The Pirates are ‘getting closer’ to a deal with free-agent designated hitter Marcell Ozuna. The interest is real. And signing him is a legit possibility,” Fillipponi wrote. According to the report, it is Ozuna’s 21 home runs that have caught the attention of the Pirates.

This is not the first time a serious connection between the Pirates and Ozuna has surfaced. Dan Zangrilli previously mentioned legitimate interest from Pittsburgh. “The Marcell Ozuna smoke is real,” Zangrilli said, adding, “Ozuna is next up on their list.”

How much does a player like Ozuna cost?

Ozuna’s most recent salary while playing with Acuña Jr. in Atlanta was $16.2 million as part of a four-year deal worth $65 million. It was the largest contract he has signed in his career to date, and he provided the Braves with a relatively affordable designated hitter who delivered solid production.

It is also worth noting that if Ozuna signs with the Pirates, it could complicate a potential return for Andrew McCutchen, who served as the team’s DH last season. Ozuna, McCutchen and Wilmer Flores remain among the designated hitters still available on the market.

However, the Pirates would not have an easy path if they pursue Ozuna. Last season, he not only hit 21 home runs but also recorded 113 hits with a .232 batting average. Another team showing interest is San Diego, which is also looking to add a DH to strengthen its offense.

“According to my sources, Marcell Ozuna is drawing interest from the San Diego Padres. Additionally, as reported earlier, the Pittsburgh Pirates are also pursuing the three-time All-Star,” Mike Rodriguez reported on X.

According to a report from Francys Romero, the Blue Jays have set their sights on the Caribbean pitcher. “According to sources, the Toronto Blue Jays have emerged as a strong suitor for Cuban reliever Raisel Iglesias,” Romero wrote on X.

This is more than just a rumor regarding Iglesias, who appeared in 70 games for the Braves last season. Toronto is genuinely looking to add the arm to their roster: “Toronto is actively pursuing the veteran right-hander as they look to reinforce the back end of their bullpen,” Romero confirmed in his report.

Iglesias’ solid 11-year career

Aside from playing alongside Acuña Jr. in Atlanta, Iglesias’ career has been relatively strong for a reliever who debuted with the Reds in 2015 and stayed there until 2020. He owns a 2.90 career ERA across 600 games and has accumulated 253 saves. With the Braves recently, he had his highest-game season, appearing in 70 games and recording 57 games finished, a career high.

Iglesias’ ERA last season was 3.21, his highest since 2019, but overall, his numbers have been consistently good. In 2024, he posted a 1.95 ERA across 66 games, indicating his form has remained strong during his tenure with the Braves.

Another arm for the Blue Jays bullpen suggests two things: first, that Toronto is seeking a way to avoid relying solely on two or three good relievers, aiming instead for maximum talent so their rotation starters are well-supported; and second, the desire to prevent late-inning collapses.

But in Atlanta’s Tuesday night matchup against the Kansas City Royals, the momentum came to a halt. Acuña exited the game in the sixth inning after experiencing discomfort, and the postgame atmosphere turned somber.

Later, Acuña addressed reporters in an emotional interview, conducted through a translator. Though he tried to remain composed, his body language and voice told the story of frustration and fear all too familiar to Braves fans.

Tightness in right Achilles sends Acuña to injured list

The team later confirmed that Acuña is dealing with tightness in his right Achilles tendon. This issue comes just over a year after he tore his left ACL in May 2024—a cruel echo of his 2021 right ACL tear. The Braves have since placed him on the 10-day injured list.

According to Acuña, the issue surfaced the day before the game, but he insisted on playing despite the warning signs. “Yeah, I think it definitely got worse today,” Acuña admitted. “I told them yesterday and everyone said hey, take the day if you want, you can have the day off. I said no, I’ve just missed so much time already through with injuries, I don’t want to miss any more time.”

Acuña’s emotional message

When asked if he feared structural damage, Acuña didn’t hold back: “Yeah, of course. It’s an injury, I’m worried. It’s just pain, but I feel it a lot when I try to put pressure on it,” he explained, showing clear concern over the seriousness of the flare-up.

For now, the Braves are taking a cautious approach. Acuña indicated that medical evaluations will continue on Wednesday to determine the next steps.

Acuña Jr. avoids major injury

MLB reporter Mark Bowman shared an update via “X” regarding Ronald Acuña Jr.’s injury status: “Acuña’s discomfort is in the upper Achilles/lower right calf region. Preliminary tests provided no reason to believe he has a significant injury. Today’s MRI will verify if this is true. If results match current expectations, there’s a chance Acuña could play again in 2–3 weeks.” This message offers a cautiously optimistic outlook for the Braves, who are hopeful the MRI will confirm that no major setback has occurred

The player in question is Kenny Acuña, the youngest of the Acuña brothers at just 14 years old. While he’s not yet old enough to sign a professional contract, he’s already on the radar of MLB scouts. According to reports, he’s given a verbal commitment to the Philadelphia Phillies.

“Acuña’s younger brother Kenny, 14 years old, played his first game in the United States today at a Perfect Game event in Florida. He has verbally agreed to sign with the Phillies, according to Sports Illustrated,” reported John Clark of NBC on X.

How many Acuña brothers are in MLB?

Ronald Acuña Jr. has three brothers. Only one of them—Luisangel Acuña—is currently in the majors, playing for the New York Mets. His other two brothers, Kenny and Bryan, are not in MLB yet. Bryan is playing under a minor league contract in the Twins system.

All four brothers share the same father, Ronald Acuña Sr., though Ronald Jr. has a different mother than his siblings. Kenny, the youngest, was born in New Hampshire sometime between 2011 and 2012. The Acuña family also includes other MLB ties, such as former big leaguer Kelvim Escobar.

While there’s still a long road ahead, Kenny’s verbal commitment to the Phillies could be a sign that he’s already viewed as a potential future prospect for the organization.