The Atlanta Braves announced on Monday that outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee, effectively ending his season. The reigning NL MVP sustained the injury during the Braves' game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday.
Acuña, who had previously torn his right ACL in July 2021, suffered the injury while attempting to return to second base after a stolen base attempt. An MRI revealed a complete tear of the ACL, necessitating surgery for the 26-year-old outfielder.
This unfortunate development comes as a blow to the Braves, who had already lost All-Star pitcher Spencer Strider earlier in the season to a season-ending injury. Strider underwent surgery to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his pitching elbow on April 13.
Despite the setbacks, the Braves welcomed back third baseman Austin Riley and catcher Sean Murphy to the lineup in Monday's game against the Washington Nationals. Riley had been sidelined for two weeks with a left side tightness, while Murphy had been recovering from a strained left oblique since March 30.
Manager Brian Snitker expressed his disappointment over Acuña's injury but emphasized the opportunity it presents for other players to step up. Ozzie Albies has been named the team's new leadoff hitter, with Jared Kelenic and Adam Duvall taking on increased roles in the outfield.
Acuña, who was named the NL MVP last season, had an impressive 2021 campaign with a .337 batting average, 41 home runs, 106 RBIs, and 73 stolen bases. In the current season, he was hitting .250 with four home runs, 15 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases before the injury.
To fill the void left by Acuña's absence, the Braves recalled outfielder J.P. Martinez from Triple-A Gwinnett, while infielder Joey Wendle was designated for assignment. Martinez is expected to serve as the team's fourth outfielder moving forward.
Despite the challenges posed by Acuña's injury, the Braves remain optimistic about their prospects for the remainder of the season. With more than 100 games left and a solid record, the team is determined to continue their pursuit of success in the NL East division.
