There hasn't been a lot to cheer about lately if you're a fan of the Atlanta Braves. The team is on the cusp of having one of its worst records since 2015. Going back to having as many losses as the organization did during the rebuild isn't encouraging.
However, there have been a few good things to come out of the organization over the last couple of days. Let's check those stories out below.
Braves News: Ronald Acuña Jr. making encouraging progress to returning from IL
It's been tough not seeing Acuña in the lineup over the last week as he recovers from a mild calf strain. Some thought it may be wise to shut him down for the season, as calf issues can be concerning.
However, it seems things are progressing well, and Acuña is working his way back to playing. Braves insiders reported Acuña took batting practice before Thursday's game against the Marlins and looked good. He also took ground balls earlier in the week with no signs of lingering issues from the strain.
Initially, there were concerns he may have injured his Achilles, but it seems those worries have been quelled. Acuña is eligible to return on August 9th, so we will learn pretty soon what the plan is with Atlanta's superstar.
Braves News: Matt Olson wins the 2025 MLBPAA Heart & Hustle Award
Atlanta first baseman Matt Olson is having another solid year on the field, and the league has taken notice. Olson was awarded the Heart & Hustle Award for this season. This award is voted on by former MLB players and given to active players who "exemplify a true passion for the game and who best embody the values, spirit, and tradition of the game."
Congratulations to @mattolson21 for being named our 2025 @MLBPAA Heart & Hustle Award Winner! 👏 pic.twitter.com/7iOhUm7TUh
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 5, 2025
It is the second time Olson has been presented this award (he also won it in 2021 with the A's). Each team has a winner selected, and an overall winner will be voted on by alumni and fans after the season ends. Still, this is an incredible honor. Olson is one of the hardest workers on this team, so it makes sense that he would represent the Braves with this award.
Braves News: Hurston Waldrep receives accolade for incredible July performance
Braves' top prospect Hurston Waldrep impressed recently with his spot start during the Speedway Classic. He has made necessary adjustments to demonstrate his ability to succeed at the MLB level. It's easy to see that his hard work is paying off.
Hurston Waldrep is your @SoFi Ambitious Player of the month!
— Gwinnett Stripers (@GoStripers) August 7, 2025
In the month of July, the #Braves No.4 ranked prospect led Stripers pitching with 23 strikeouts and an impressive 0.78 ERA, earning him the second-lowest ERA in all of Triple-A during that stretch. pic.twitter.com/fHCZfkug45
He had an incredible month with Triple-A Gwinnett, capped off by that start in Bristol. Waldrep had a 0.78 ERA in July with the Stripers, with 23 strikeouts over 23 innings pitched. It's expected that he will pitch one of the games of Atlanta's doubleheader with the Marlins on August 9th. So, he will get another chance to show he's ready for the bigs.