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MLB Makes Ronald Acuna Jr. Declaration After Unforgettable Home Run on Friday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rex Villas | Last updated May 23, 2025 10:22 PM ET

Ronald Acuna Jr. couldn’t have had a better at-bat in his first game back in MLB after recovering from a devastating injury.

On Friday, the former National League Most Valuable Player sent one into orbit on the very first pitch he saw against the San Diego Padres. San Diego starter Nick Pivetta threw a 93 MPH four-seam fastball against Acuna, who hit it for a 467-foot blast, as the crowd at Truist Park in Atlanta went into pandemonium.

It was a glorious sight for Braves fans, who waited for a long time to see Acuna return to action, and he immediately announced his presence with that booming home run that put Atlanta on the board first.

“HE IS BACK. Ronald Acuña Jr. homers on the first pitch he sees!” declared MLB on its official X account.

HE IS BACK.

Ronald Acuña Jr. homers on the first pitch he sees! pic.twitter.com/LZgwO3b8kZ
— MLB (@MLB) May 23, 2025

The 27-year-old Acuna’s 2024 season was cut short by an ACL injury he suffered in May of that year. He went under the knife to address his injury, and had not seen action in the big leagues until the opening game of the Padres series at home.

Acuna only played in 49 games in 2024, batting .250/.351/.365 with four home runs and 15 RBIs to go with 16 stolen bases and 27 walks drawn.

Acuna’s return gives Atlanta a much-needed jolt, as the Braves entered the San Diego series on a two-game losing skid. The Braves are also lagging behind in the National League East race, with the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets ahead of Atlanta in the standings.

The Braves started Friday under .500, with a 24-25 record.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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