Braves Announce Unexpected Ronald Acuna Jr. Decision After Missing Mariners Game

The Braves as a whole have endured an uneven season, with injuries and inconsistency keeping them below the top tier of the National League. Entering Saturday, Atlanta trailed by 12.0 games in the race for the final NL Wild Card spot, making their postseason odds close to zero.

Atlanta's path back to October baseball is very unlikely at this point, but a healthy and available Acuña is something fans can get excited about for the remainder of the 2025 MLB season.

Braves' Brian Snitker Adjusts Lineup Upon Acuña’s Return

When the Braves announced their official lineup for Saturday’s game, there was a surprising wrinkle. Acuña was indeed back in action, but not in his customary spot atop the order. Instead, he was listed in the sixth position, marking the first time in seven years he had batted outside the top four (h/t Underdog MLB).

For a player who has spent nearly his entire career as the engine of the Braves’ offense, this was an eye-catching adjustment.

The change prompts larger questions about Atlanta’s strategy. By placing Acuña further down the order, the Braves may be looking to lengthen their lineup.

Star third baseman Austin Riley has been out with a core issue, and will not return this season. His 2025 slash line before surgery was .260/.309/.428 with 16 home runs and a .737 OPS. Without him, the Braves have been searching for consistency both at third and in the middle of their lineup.

Experimenting with Acuña lower in the lineup could be one way for the Braves lengthen things a bit as they continue searching for answers in September.