Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. will miss the remainder of the season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Sunday’s 8-1 victory over Pittsburgh.
The reigning NL MVP began the game with a double to right-center off Martín Pérez. While attempting to steal third with Marcell Ozuna at the plate, Acuña’s left knee buckled. He stayed down for several minutes, pointing to his left leg before walking off the field under his own power.
Initially diagnosed with left knee soreness, the Braves announced Sunday night that an MRI revealed a complete ACL tear, necessitating season-ending surgery.
Acuña previously tore his right ACL on July 20, 2021. Despite wearing a brace in the clubhouse after Sunday’s win, the 26-year-old outfielder noted that this injury felt less severe.
“It doesn’t feel that painful, no pop or anything. … I don’t think it’s that bad,” Acuña remarked.
Acuña explained that he intended to take third base anticipating a slow throw back to the mound from catcher Joey Bart. The unexpected harder toss led to an abrupt pivot back to second, causing his knee to twist.
Acuña is hitting .250 with four homers and 15 RBIs in 49 games. The four-time All-Star posted a career-best .337 average with 41 homers and 106 RBIs last season.
The Braves are also missing All-Star right-hander Spencer Strider, who underwent internal brace surgery on April 13 to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his pitching elbow. Additionally, third baseman Austin Riley is day-to-day with a left intercostal strain, and catcher Sean Murphy remains on the 10-day injured list with an oblique injury sustained on opening day.
“It’s something everybody goes through,” manager Brian Snitker said before Acuña’s MRI results were known. “We’ve been through it before. Personally, I just hate it for the young men it affects more than us. These guys love to play the game. When something happens to them, I hate it for the individuals more than for us.”
