The second half is underway for the Atlanta Braves, and with the first series back comes the hope that things will turn around. Atlanta squared off with the Yankees on Friday to begin that hopeful quest and thankfully, Ronald Acuña Jr. came more than ready to play.
New York has struggled at times this year which is why they occupy the top AL wild card spot. However, they are only two games out of first in the AL East. They have a lot to play for, but the Braves wanted to play spoiler.
The Braves have also struggled this season to find consistency and they have looked desperately for any spark to get things back on track. Getting to the postseason won't be an easy task, but this team has proven before they can get it done.
Atlanta found themselves with an early lead against the Yankees thanks to an impressive offensive showing. Acuna Jr. was, of course, involved in that early outburst. However, he made a defensive play in the third inning that blew everyone away.
Ronald Acuña Jr.'s throw for the out at third on Friday may be the throw of the season so far
With runners on second and third with one out, Cody Bellinger popped up to Acuna in right field. The runner on second attempted to advance, but Atlanta's superstar right fielder wasn't having that. He immediately turned and fired an absolute missile to Nacho Alvarez Jr. at third base.
Inject this directly into my veins.
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) July 19, 2025
Ronald Acuña Jr. COLD BLOODED.pic.twitter.com/erxyiloxyP
Braves announcer Brandon Gaudin really sold the surprise of the throw beating the runner to third. The Yankees seem to have forgotten the elite arm strength possessed by Acuna in right field. This throw was reminiscent of Bo Jackson's famous frozen rope against the Yankees in 1993.
There aren't many outfielders who can throw the baseball with that kind of strength and accuracy. Once again, Acuna put the entire league on notice and reminded them why he is arguably the best player in Major League Baseball.