The Atlanta Braves haven't had the best luck with injuries over the last couple of seasons. Ronald Acuña Jr. has been injured multiple times in his career, and that's stunk. However, he's bounced back time and time again. The main issue with him being out of the lineup is that fans have had less time to experience his greatness.
It feels just like yesterday that Acuña signed an eight-year, $100 million contract. There are just two years left on this contract. This puts the Braves in a very tough spot, especially with the potential of a lockout looming.
Acuña's absence from the start of the 2025 season was tough, but he impressed once he returned from his knee injury. He slashed .290/.417/.518 over 95 games, with 12 doubles, 21 homers, 42 RBI, 71 BB, 102 K, and a .935 OPS. These numbers would have only impressed more if he hadn't missed some time due to right Achilles tendon inflammation.
However, he continued to show how great his value is to this team. Acuña struggled a bit hitting further down in the order, but he still found a way to produce. With his production in the Venezuelan Winter League this winter, Acuña has fans excited for what's to come in 2026.
Ronald Acuña Jr's. performance (and health) in 2026 could determine a lot for his future with the Braves
This season may be the most important of Acuña's career, for both he and the Braves. With how well he's playing right now, that momentum could help carry him to another MVP title next season. If he's able to do that, it would be easy for Atlanta to pick up his option for 2027.
Recent exuberant costs for free agent outfielders like Kyle Tucker have complicated things a bit as well. Atlanta has club options on their superstar for 2027 and 2028. These options are very affordable for his talent at $17 million. However, fans would like to see him sign a contract extension to remain a Brave beyond 2028.
Tucker getting $60 million a year from the Dodgers doesn't instill a lot of hope. While Acuña is a generational talent, that is an unsustainable amount of money for most MLB teams to pay season after season.
The other concern lies with his ability to stay healthy. That makes investing in him long-term just a bit more difficult. If Acuña returns to form on the field and stays healthy, there's no reason Alex Anthopoulos shouldn't find a way to keep him in Atlanta.
Fans will be holding their breath as they've gotten too used to seeing favorite players leave in free agency. Acuña leaving would be the final straw for most of Braves Country. If there's any player who's earned the opportunity to receive a big payday from Atlanta, it's him.