Braves’ Star Outfielder Ronald Acuña Activated After Year-Long ACL Recovery 

Ronald Acuña Jr., the star of the Atlanta Braves, is about to make his eagerly awaited comeback to Major League Baseball following over a year of recuperation. On Friday, May 23, 2025, the 2023 National League MVP will return to the Braves’ lineup for the series opening against the San Diego Padres after being activated from the injured list.  

A Grueling Road to Recovery

Acuña’s return to the field has been characterized by tenacity and fortitude. During a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on May 26, 2024, he tore the ACL completely in his left knee. After tearing his right ACL in 2021, this was his second serious knee injury. He missed the rest of the season due to the injury, which necessitated surgery on June 6, 2024.

During his recuperation, Acuña never wavered in his resolve. He was confident in his improvement during spring training, saying in an interview that he felt “great” and that his knee was “90-95% recovered” as he got ready for the 2025 season. 

Dominant Performance in Rehab Assignments

Acuña performed admirably during his rehab assignments, demonstrating his readiness before to rejoining the Braves. Before to Triple-A Gwinnett, he played for the Florida Complex League Braves, where he went 6-for-15 with two home runs and two RBIs in six games.

He demonstrated that his timing and power at the plate were still intact with a home run in his third at-bat during a game against the Florida Complex League Braves.  

Impact on the Braves’ Season

The Braves have had a difficult start to the 2025 season, so Acuña’s return comes at a critical moment. The team has struggled offensively and currently sits third in the National League East with a 24-25 record.

Brian Snitker, the manager, was upbeat about Acuña’s comeback, saying the outfielder feels prepared and is excited to help the team win. It is anticipated that Acuña’s arrival will significantly improve the Braves’ lineup on both the offensive and defensive ends. 

A Historic Career Resumes

Acuña is already regarded as one of baseball’s best players at the age of 27. He finished the 2023 season with a.337 batting average, 41 home runs, and 73 stolen bases, making him the first player in MLB history to record a 40-homer, 70-stolen-base season.

Acuña had four All-Star selections, a.289 batting average, 165 home runs, and 196 stolen bases in 722 games over his career. Fans are more excited to see one of the game’s most dynamic players return to action, and his return not only improves the Braves’ chances this season.

Looking Ahead

All eyes will be on Acuña as the Braves get ready to play the Padres to see how he does after his recuperation. His mere appearance is anticipated to invigorate the club and its supporters, even though it’s unclear how soon he’ll regain his MVP status.

The narrative of Acuña’s return is evidence of his commitment to and love for the game. The Braves and their fans are eager for him to return to the field because they believe it will be the start of a successful 2025 season.