Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr (13) reacts after hitting a lead-off home run against the San Diego Padres during the first inning at Truist Park. Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Watch: Ronald Acuna Jr. homers in first at-bat back after ACL tear

By Andrew Wright | Last updated May 23, 2025 8:18 PM ET

Welcome back to the show, Ronald Acuña Jr.

Acuña hasn't seen a pitch in the major leagues since May 26, 2024, when he suffered a torn ACL in a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

His return to the plate did not disappoint, and he brought Truist Park to life with an electric swing of the bat vs. the San Diego Padres on Friday.

HE IS BACK.

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

After 362 days away, Acuña launched a 467-foot home run and welcomed himself back to the major leagues in quite a nice way.

The career. 289 hitter and former MVP is hoping to help the Atlanta Braves reach the postseason for the eighth consecutive season.

With the addition of Acuña to the top of the Braves lineup, an Atlanta team that ranks 14th in team average should be much improved and become much more dangerous in the NL playoff picture.

pic.twitter.com/dyqXupX8Tk
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 23, 2025

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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