Atlanta Braves fans were understandably concerned this week when Ronald Acuña Jr. was scratched from the Braves' lineup with stiffness in his back. It proved to be a momentary absence as he was back in the next day and promptly blasted two home runs. However, it did indicate that Acuña Jr. wasn't 100% and his full participation in the upcoming All-Star festivities was in jeopardy.
Sadly, that proved to be correct as it was revealed on Friday evening that Acuña Jr. would not be participating in the Home Run Derby as expected. There is some good news, however. Not only will Acuña Jr. still play in the All-Star Game, but teammate Matt Olson will take his place in the Derby.
Watch out in the Chop House - Matt Olson will participate in Monday’s #HRDerby!
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) July 11, 2025
He replaces Ronald Acuña Jr. who will not participate in the Derby, but will still start in the #AllStarGame pic.twitter.com/AEDXv2BvNV
Ronald Acuña Jr. out of Home Run Derby, Matt Olson to replace him
If Acuña Jr. was going to miss the All-Star Game as well, this would be more concerning. Given that Acuña Jr.'s back has been sore and he is also just now getting back up to speed after his knee injury, he and the Braves are likely just exercising an abundance of caution as the Derby can be pretty grueling. Acuña Jr. wouldn't be playing at all if his issues were more serious than that.
While it would have been great to see Acuña Jr. participate in the Derby at Truist Park, Atlanta fans will still get to see Olson take his shot. Olson has no shortage of power at his disposal and is likely to pepper the Chop House with more than a few bombs. Given the field this year, it wouldn't be that crazy if he made a real run at winning the thing.
For Braves fans already in a panic, you shouldn't just yet. In a season full of colossal disappointments, this feels like a very minor blip.