Braves' Ronald Acuna Jr. Announces Career Decision

During the MLB Awards Show on Thursday night, Acuna was named the National League Comeback Player of the Year. He won the award, marking the second straight year a Braves player has earned the honor, following teammate Chris Sale’s selection in 2024.

Acuna reacted to the honor with a post on X that read “Braves44VER❤️,” alongside a photo of him on stage. When a fan replied “Promise?” beneath the post, Acuna responded, “I PROMISE.”

Acuna is currently playing under an eight-year, $100 million contract extension he signed with Atlanta in April 2019. The deal runs through the 2026 season and includes two $17 million club options for 2027 and 2028. Those options are widely expected to be picked up, effectively keeping him in a Braves uniform through 2028.

After that, Acuna will need to renegotiate a new deal, one that could redefine his future with the franchise and test Atlanta’s long-term commitment to its superstar.

Trade rumors surfaced around Acuna at this year’s deadline, fueled by the Braves’ disappointing season and speculation about a potential reset. But the front office held firm, and Acuna’s second-half surge reminded everyone why he remains the face of the franchise.

Over the course of his career, he has built a résumé that already places him among the franchise’s elite. He won the 2018 NL Rookie of the Year and 2023 MVP awards and is five-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger. His combination of power, speed and charisma has made him one of the most exciting players in baseball. If he stays healthy and continues to produce, Acuna has a chance to go down as one of the greatest Braves of all time.