Atlanta Braves Give Major Update on Ronald Acuña Jr.’s Injury

Acuña, who missed the beginning of the 2025 MLB season due to a torn left anterior cruciate ligament in 2024, was recently sidelined by a Grade 1 right calf strain he sustained during a game against the Kansas City Royals on July 29. Initially, there were concerns about an Achilles injury, but subsequent tests confirmed the calf strain.

Braves Roster Moves as Acuña Comes Back Again

Acuña’s competitive nature is well known; the outfielder has repeatedly made it clear he wants to be on the field even when his body is not fully ready. That drive has made him a centerpiece of the Braves roster, but it has also led to difficult decisions for the team, particularly in a season where Atlanta has struggled and the focus has shifted toward future planning.

With the 2025 campaign largely out of reach, the priority for the Braves may now be keeping Acuña healthy for the 2026 season rather than pushing for short-term results.

In a corresponding move, Atlanta outrighted catcher Sandy León to Triple-A Gwinnett. León, who had been part of the Braves catching rotation, will now continue the season in the minors. Rookie Drake Baldwin and Sean Murphy have been getting more playing time, and the Braves had brought in a backup catcher as insurance in case something happened to either of them.

The move gives the organization roster flexibility without affecting the team’s long-term outlook.

The Braves handling of Acuña’s injuries has become a recurring storyline, reflecting the delicate balance between keeping a star player on the field and protecting him from further setbacks. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Acuña can stay healthy through the remainder of the year and enter 2026 ready to lead Atlanta’s lineup.