Ronald Acuña Jr. Out For Season With Torn ACL
Ronald Acuña Jr. Out For Season With Torn ACL...
Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. will miss the remainder of the 2026 MLB season after suffering a torn ACL in his right knee during Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies. The devastating injury occurred in the third inning when Acuña awkwardly landed after attempting a leaping catch at the right-field wall.
Acuña, the 2025 NL MVP, was immediately removed from the game and underwent an MRI on Monday morning that confirmed the tear. The Braves announced he will undergo surgery later this week, with an expected 9-12 month recovery timeline. This marks the second major knee injury of Acuña's career after he tore his left ACL in July 2021.
The loss is a crushing blow to the Braves, who entered the season as World Series favorites. Acuña was off to another MVP-caliber start, batting .312 with 7 home runs and 19 RBIs through Atlanta's first 22 games. His absence leaves a massive hole in both the lineup and outfield defense.
Fans and players across baseball expressed shock at the news on social media Monday. Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos, who witnessed the injury firsthand, tweeted: "Hate to see this happen to anyone, especially a player of Ronnie's caliber. Wishing him a full recovery."
The injury is trending nationally as Acuña remains one of baseball's most electrifying players and a fan favorite. Braves manager Brian Snitker told reporters Monday: "It's heartbreaking for Ronnie and for our team, but we know he'll attack this rehab like he does everything else."
Atlanta will likely turn to a combination of Jarred Kelenic and Adam Duvall in right field. The team may also explore trade options as the July deadline approaches. Acuña's $17 million salary for 2026 will remain on the Braves' payroll while he recovers.
This latest setback comes just as Acuña had fully regained his pre-2021 injury form. The 28-year-old had played in 287 consecutive games before Sunday, showcasing the durability that made him one of baseball's most valuable players. His absence will significantly impact both the NL East race and MLB's national TV schedule.
Braves fans flooded social media with well-wishes for Acuña, with many recalling his inspirational comeback from his previous knee surgery. The team begins a three-game series against the Miami Marlins on Tuesday night without their superstar right fielder.
