When we look back at the 2020s, we may consider this to be the age of the right fielder. According to MLB.com, a third of the best players (five of the Top 15) in the game today man the right-field position. We’re likely to see multiple 30-30 seasons from the current crop of right fielders, and of course, there’s arguably the best right-handed batter of all time, Aaron Judge. It’s hard enough just to break into these ranks. If you throw a long history of injury into the mix, acclaim like this is that much harder. But not for Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. apparently.
MLB’s proprietary analysis “The Shredder” has dubbed Acuña the fifth-best right fielder in the game today. That’s two spots higher than 2025 despite yet another injury-marred campaign. The praise is an acknowledgment of Acuña’s rare talent. When Acuña’s on the field, he’s capable of achieving feats few others can even dream of.
"The Shredder" seems to be downplaying Ronald Acuña Jr.’s injury history in naming him the fifth-best RF in baseball.
In a way, the ranking makes sense. The Shredder is data-driven, and Acuña puts up impressive numbers virtually any time he steps in the batter’s box. He ranked in the 95th percentile or better in xwOBA, xSLG, bat speed, walk rate, and batting run value in 2025. If you’re better than 95% of the rest of the Majors, you should expect to be among the best at your position.
However, Acuña Jr. has missed sizable chunks of time in recent years. Among the Top 10 right fielders, only Mike Trout, who moved to the position last season and who is seemingly perpetually injured, has averaged fewer games per season than Acuña over the past five years. Even Fernando Tatis Jr., who missed an entire season while suspended for PED use, has averaged more games per year than Acuña.
This is the trouble with projections. On paper, Acuña Jr. was and is one of the best players of his generation. He has inimitable tools and can sway a game with a single swing. Of course, I’m going to put him on a list of the best in baseball right now, but if I’m building an actual baseball team (not one that plays on paper), I’m not so sure. The Shredder may have failed to weigh a possible 90-game season for Acuña against a full season from one of his competitors. As a Braves fan, though, I’m willing to take my chances.