Braves manager Walt Weiss reveals timeline for return of former MVP

It does not appear that the Atlanta Braves will be waiting much longer for the return of their superstar right fielder.

While speaking to the media after Thursday's game, Braves manager Walt Weiss provided an updated timeline on the return of right fielder Ronald Acuna.

Ronald Acuna expected to return at some this weekend

According to Atlanta beat writer Mark Bowman, Weiss told reporters that Acuna will play another rehab game with Triple-A Gwinnett on Thursday and then a decision will be made. 

Weiss noted that there is a possibility that Acuna is activated ahead of Friday's series opener against the Baltimore Orioles and if not Friday, it's almost certain to happen at some point over the weekend.

Acuna has been on the injured list since June 9 when he suffered his second hamstring strain of the season.

Can Ronald Acuna return to MVP level production?

With two injured list stints this season, Acuna's health is the No. 1 concern for the remainder of the season. With health, should come more production, something the Braves would love from Acuna when putting him back in the leadoff spot.

In 53 games this season, Acuna has managed just a .251 batting average and seven home runs, well below his usual and expected production.

If Acuna is able to replicate any kind of production from his 2023 MVP season, Atlanta has a real chance of making its first deep postseason run since winning the World Series in 2021.