Braves Face $250M+ Decision: Clock Ticking on “Brave for Life” Ronald Acuña Jr. Contract Extension.vc

With the 2023 MVP’s final guaranteed year in 2026 approaching, Atlanta must act to prevent a $40M AAV bidding war, balancing his generational talent against his significant injury history.

ATLANTA — Ronald Acuña Jr. has been the Atlanta Braves’ franchise player since he stepped onto the diamond in 2018. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos recognized his generational talent early, locking him up on a famously team-friendly, long-term deal back in 2019 when Acuña was just 21.

Since signing that deal, Acuña has won the 2023 NL MVP, been selected to five All-Star teams, and won three Silver Sluggers.

Now, that original contract is rapidly approaching its end. Acuña will enter the 2026 season on the final guaranteed year of his deal. While the Braves hold two $17 million club options for 2027 and 2028—which are considered a “mortal lock” to be exercised—the organization is facing a critical window.

If Anthopoulos wants to make Acuña Jr. a “Brave for life,” the next calendar year may be the time to approach the superstar with a massive new contract extension.

The $250 Million Question

The stakes for a new deal are astronomical. A recent article from Bleacher Report, which listed 10 players who could land a contract of at least $250 million, included Acuña in its honorable mentions.

Analysts agree that should Acuña hit the open market as a 31-year-old after the 2028 season, it is not outlandish to see him landing an eight-year, $250 million contract.

This is precisely the scenario Anthopoulos must get out in front of. Players as good as Acuña Jr. rarely hit free agency, and when they do, they command an average annual value (AAV) north of $40 million—similar to the deal Juan Soto landed last winter.

The great advantage for Atlanta is Acuña’s public and consistent openness about wanting to be a Brave for life. He truly loves the city and is committed to being one of the best players in baseball.

The Health Caveat and a Future at DH

However, the primary caveat to approaching Acuña with a new long-term deal is his ability to remain on the field.

While he is a generational hitter, Acuña is also recovering from his second major knee surgery. His defense and mobility in the outfield have predictably taken a step back.

Because of his limited mobility, Acuña could very well transition to a full-time designated hitter (DH) role as he plays into his 30s. This is a move most Braves fans would find “more than fine,” as that effort would certainly help keep Acuña Jr.’s bat in the lineup and ensure he stays healthier in the long run.

If Anthopoulos is going to make Acuña a Brave for life—and accompany that deal with the necessary finances—it must come with an in-house commitment to keeping him healthy, even if that means a new position.