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MLB Reacts to Ronald Acuña, Luisangel Acuña Interaction in Braves-Mets

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rodney Knuppel | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 10:39 AM ET

Tuesday night was a first on the field at Truist Park in Atlanta. In the 5-4 extra innings win for the Braves over the New York Mets, Ronald and Luisangel Acuña played each other for the first time in Major League Baseball.

Luisangel did not get an at-bat in the game, as he came in as a late defensive replacement at second base. Ronald had a nice night with a hit and two runs scored, while being walked three times in the game.

Late Tuesday night, MLB shared an emotional embrace that took place between the two:

"Brothers don't shake hands ... brothers gotta hug!"

Brothers don't shake hands ... brothers gotta hug!

Ronald Acuña Jr. and Luisangel Acuña faced off for the 1st time in the Big Leagues ❤️ pic.twitter.com/OIwYmohc6p
— MLB (@MLB) June 18, 2025

Ronald, the older brother, has been on a tear since returning from the injured list on May 23. He went 11-for-30 to close out May, and he has stayed hot in June, hitting 20-for-49 with four home runs and seven runs batted in.

On the season, Ronald is batting an impressive .392 with seven home runs and 13 RBIs. The 27-year-old is a four-time All-Star and was named the 2023 National League MVP. He also took home NL Rookie of the Year honors in 2018.

Luisangel, just 23 years old, continues to compete for playing time with the Mets. He made his MLB debut in September 2024 and earned a spot on the 2025 Opening Day roster. His strong start earned him National League Rookie of the Month honors for April.

So far this season, Luisangel is batting .248 with six RBIs but has yet to hit his first home run. On Sunday, despite a 9-0 loss to the Rays, he notched two hits, showing flashes of his potential.

The Braves and Mets continue their series Wednesday night and wrap it up on Thursday.

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

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