October 31, 2025 – Atlanta, GA – Ronald Acuña Jr., the Atlanta Braves’ generational superstar and 2023 National League MVP, is entering the final guaranteed year of his team-friendly 2019 extension. With $17 million club options for 2027 and 2028 almost certain to be exercised, GM Alex Anthopoulos faces a critical decision: secure Acuña as a Brave for life now — or risk losing him to a $250+ million free-agent windfall in 2029.
Bleacher Report recently named Acuña an honorable mention among MLB’s top candidates for contracts exceeding $250 million, joining elite names like Tarik Skubal, Paul Skenes, and James Wood.
Why 2026 Is the Braves’ Window to Extend Ronald Acuña Jr.
Milestone
Achievement
MLB Debut
2018
All-Star Selections
5×
Silver Sluggers
3×
NL MVP
2023
Current Contract
Final guaranteed year in 2026
“Players as good as Ronald Acuña Jr. don’t hit the free agent market often — and when they do, they land AAVs north of $40 million like Juan Soto,” Bleacher Report warned.
At age 31 in 2029, Acuña could command an 8-year, $250–300 million deal on the open market — a price the Braves can avoid by acting early.
The Health Caveat: Acuña’s Knees and the DH Transition
Acuña’s elite offense remains unquestioned, but two major knee surgeries (2021 ACL, 2024 meniscus) have impacted his once-electric defense.
Outfield Mobility: Noticeably reduced
Future Role: Likely transition to DH in mid-30s
Fan Consensus: “Keep him healthy and in the lineup — even if it means DH”
“Ronald is a generational hitter and will likely continue to be for the remainder of his career,” the report noted. “The biggest caveat is his ability to remain on the field more often.”
A long-term extension must include in-house health protocols — advanced recovery, load management, and strategic DH usage — to maximize Acuña’s durability.
Acuña’s Loyalty: “I Want to Be a Brave for Life”
Unlike many superstars, Acuña has been vocal about his love for Atlanta:
“He truly loves the city of Atlanta, and he cares about being one of the best players in baseball for as long as he is on the field.”
This mutual affection gives Anthopoulos leverage — but not unlimited time.
Braves’ Options: Extend Now or Pay Later
Path
Risk
Reward
Extend in 2026
Moderate cost, health uncertainty
Locks in franchise icon at discount
Let Options Play Out
Acuña hits FA at 31
$40M+ AAV, potential loss to Yankees/Dodgers
“If Anthopoulos wants to make Acuña Jr. a Brave for life, this next calendar year may be the time,” the analysis concluded.
Final Verdict: Act Now, Atlanta
Ronald Acuña Jr. isn’t just the face of the Braves — he’s the heart of the franchise. With free agency looming and health concerns manageable through smart planning, 2026 is the year to rewrite his contract.
Braves fans agree: Pay the man. Protect the knees. Build around the MVP. #AcuñaForLife
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