The Atlanta Braves are one step closer to adding superstar outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. to the roster. It's been a long year without him, and while the team is doing their best to tread water without him, there's no denying he will be a huge boost for them.
Acuña has been doing a great job during his rehab assignment and looks ready to return. He has played in four games so far (one with the FCL Braves and three with Triple-A Gwinnett). He appears ready to return as he's batting .444 over nine at-bats with four hits, including two home runs, two RBI, and six walks.
Braves lineup will be lethal once Ronald Acuña Jr. makes his return
All signs point to him returning when the Braves return home to face the Padres. However, Brian Snitker stated they wanted to see how he felt after playing a full nine-inning game before deciding on adding him to the MLB roster.
Let's check out how the Braves lineup may look once he does return.
1. Acuña Jr.
2. Riley
3. Olson
4. Ozuna
5. Murphy/Baldwin
6. Albies
7. Harris II
8. White/Verdugo
9. Allen
This lineup assumes that Snitker will continue to run out a similar lineup to what we have seen this season. Acuña has always thrived in the leadoff spot, and that will relegate Alex Verdugo to a platoon role with Eli White.
However, Snit could also go with a lineup similar to how it looked in 2024 before Acuña's injury. This would expand the lineup further, but Ozzie Albies would be hitting second, and with how he's struggled this year, I don't know if that's a wise decision. However, that could be something that is right up Snit's alley.
That lineup would probably look something like this:
1. Acuña Jr.
2. Albies
3. Riley
4. Olson
5. Ozuna
6. Baldwin/Murphy
7. Harris II
8. White/Verdugo
9. Allen
Whatever decision Snitker makes, Acuña's return will deepen an already dangerous lineup. Yes, they've underperformed at times, but it feels like they're starting to hit their stride at the right time. A Braves team with one of baseball's best players is not one to be taken lightly.
The most important thing is allowing Acuña Jr. to play while remaining healthy. Atlanta won't rush him back. They will be as careful as possible to ensure he has the best chance at success.