Replacing Ronald Acuña Jr. for the remainder of this baseball season presents the Atlanta Braves with perhaps their toughest challenge since emerging as postseason contenders in 2018.
Heading into this season, the Braves were widely expected to extend their streak of six consecutive division titles, having assembled one of baseball’s strongest rosters. However, their aspirations took a severe blow with early-season injuries to key players. Pitcher Spencer Strider, known for his strikeouts, was the first casualty, undergoing elbow surgery after just two starts. Shortly thereafter, Acuña, the defending MVP, suffered a torn ACL on May 27 while running the bases.
This double setback can be likened to the National League equivalent of the New York Yankees losing Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole and former MVP Aaron Judge for the season.
Last year, Acuña also suffered a season-ending injury before the All-Star break, prompting Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos to make bold moves at the trade deadline. These acquisitions, including Adam Duvall, Joc Pederson, Eddie Rosario, and Jorge Soler, not only filled Acuña’s void but propelled the Braves to a World Series victory.
However, this season poses a different challenge. With the trade deadline still over a month away and many teams still in contention for expanded playoffs, Anthopoulos has made limited moves so far, acquiring Ramón Laureano after his release by the Cleveland Guardians.
Manager Brian Snitker has been forced to shuffle his lineup, placing Laureano in right field alongside newcomers like Brian Anderson and adjusting placements for Jerred Kelenic and Adam Duvall. Kelenic, in particular, has stepped up since moving to the leadoff spot, showcasing his potential with strong offensive performances.
While the Braves face an uphill battle without Acuña’s dominant presence, their resilience and strategic adjustments offer hope as they approach the halfway mark of the season, aiming once again for postseason success.
