Braves’ Trio Shines: Sale, Acuña, and Olson Named 2025 All-Stars Despite Team’s Struggles.vc
The Atlanta Braves are having a tough 2025 season, sitting last in the NL East with a 7-13 record as of April 20, per MLB.com, but they’re still sending three stars to the All-Star Game at their home park, Truist Park, on July 15. Outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., first baseman Matt Olson, and pitcher Chris Sale were named to the National League roster, with Acuña starting and Olson and Sale as reserves, chosen by player ballots and the Commissioner’s Office, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Why It Matters
Despite the Braves’ rocky year—outscored by 30 runs early, per ESPN—these selections highlight individual brilliance. Manager Brian Snitker called it a “special” honor, especially since the team is hosting the All-Star festivities. For Sale, it’s his ninth All-Star nod, a testament to his 2024 Cy Young comeback (18-3, 2.38 ERA, 225 K) and 2025 solidity (15-6, 2.85 ERA, 210 K, per FanGraphs). Olson, with a .272 average, 17 HR, and elite defense (+12 DRS), earns his fourth straight All-Star trip. Acuña, back from a 2024 ACL tear, dazzles with a projected .290/.380/.520 slash, per ZiPS, and starts in right field.
Personal Triumphs
For Sale, from Lakeland, Florida, the nod is personal—his three sons cheer him as “badass,” per his AJC quote, echoing the family-driven grit behind his 2024 redemption. Olson, hailing from Lilburn, Georgia, just 25 miles from Truist Park, sees it as a “full-circle” moment, having attended the 2000 All-Star Game as a kid. Acuña, the 2023 MVP, brings hometown energy, aiming to steal bases and spark the crowd, per his “cool to participate” vibe.
Team Context
The Braves’ struggles—compounded by Michael Harris II’s recent hamstring injury and Jarred Kelenic’s baserunning gaffe—make these honors a bright spot. Snitker praised the trio’s resilience, saying their selections “speak volumes” about their leadership. With Sale anchoring a rotation eyeing a Sonny Gray trade, and Acuña and Olson fueling the lineup, the All-Star nod is a morale boost as Atlanta chases a turnaround, much like Sale’s son-inspired revival or Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Cubs breakout.
