Braves lose reigning NL MVP for remainder of the season with torn ACL
The Braves announced that Ronald Acuña Jr. will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL in his left knee. The talented outfielder suffered the injury on a non-contact play during Sunday’s game.
The reigning National League MVP was taking a lead off second base when his knee buckled and he fell to the dirt, grabbing at his left leg. Trainers came out to check on the injured Acuña and then walked off the field with him.
Atlanta initially announced the injury as left knee soreness.
This is not the first time the electric Acuña tore an ACL. He suffered the same injury to his right knee in July 2021. Acuña tore his right ACL when he leapt for a fly ball in right field and came down awkwardly on his leg. His latest injury came on an innocent play, after he planted his foot in the infield dirt and then his knee buckled.
Following the injury, Acuña posted on social media after learning his fate, and he apologized to fans.
“Sorry,” Acuña posted, with a broken heart and crying face emoji.
After a dominant 2023 season where Acuña batted .337/.416/.596 with 41 home runs, 106 RBIs, and 73 stolen bases, he won the NL MVP. He was the first player to have at least 40 home runs and 70 stolen bases.
In 48 games this season, Acuña has a slash line of .246/.348/.356 with four home runs, 15 RBI, and 16 stolen bases.
Losing Acuña is a crushing blow for the Braves, who boast a 30-20 record this season.
