ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Braves, current World Series champions, are closing in on the highly anticipated return of superstar outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., with a “loose” target date of May 6. This timeline, reported by Ken Rosenthal, is a more specific goal than the previous “early May” estimates and aligns with the maximum time allotted for his ongoing minor league rehabilitation.
The Rehab Timeline
Acuña, who turns 25 this year, is scheduled to begin his official rehab assignment today (Tuesday) with the Braves’ Triple-A affiliate, the Gwinnett Stripers, as reported by David O’Brien of The Athletic.
- Rehab Start: Tuesday, with the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers.
- Maximum Length: Rehab assignments for position players can last up to 20 days.
- Latest Debut: This means Acuña must be activated by the Braves’ main roster around May 7, barring any unexpected setbacks or a second injury.
The May 6 target date coincides perfectly with the start of an eight-game homestand for the Braves at Truist Park. They are scheduled to host the Milwaukee Brewers, followed by series against the Boston Red Sox and the San Diego Padres over a 10-day period—a crucial stretch where the team will undoubtedly benefit from the return of their dynamic leadoff hitter.
Impact of the Acuña Return
Acuña is expected to immediately slot into the lineup, likely seeing action in center field. His return will be a massive boost for a Braves offense that is currently relying on a starting outfield rotation featuring Marcell Ozuna, Adam Duvall, and Eddie Rosario.
The 24-year-old tore his right ACL last July, ending his 2021 season prematurely and forcing him to watch the Braves’ improbable run to a championship from the sidelines. Prior to the injury, Acuña was having an MVP-caliber season, batting a sensational .283/.394/.596 (156 OPS+) with 24 home runs and 17 stolen bases in just 82 games.
For his career, Acuña has proven to be one of the game’s elite players, boasting a 138 OPS+ and making two All-Star appearances. His last full season in 2019 saw him join the exclusive “40/40 club” conversation, finishing with 41 home runs and 37 stolen bases.
Braves’ Early Season Struggles
Acuña’s imminent return comes at a critical time for the defending champions. The Braves have opened the season with a lukewarm 4-5 record, placing them in a tie for second place in the National League East with the Washington Nationals.
As the team attempts to become the first club to repeat as World Series champions in more than two decades, integrating a game-changing talent like Acuña could be the catalyst needed to overcome their early season inconsistencies and gain ground in the division.
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