On the surface, it looks like Ronald Acuña could go out and mash 50 home runs tomorrow. Monday, he told reporters that he feels 95% and was also mashing baseballs off the scoreboard in batting practice before screaming, “I’m back!”
Ronald Acuña said he’s 95% back to full strength and if it’s up to him… he’ll be there for opening day.
However… final timeframe will be up to Braves doctors pic.twitter.com/qYENoGSR9F
— Zach Klein (@ZachKleinWSB) March 14, 2022
Braves Ronald Acuña just hit one off the scoreboard in left center and said…
“I’m Back!!!” pic.twitter.com/Nzdz17P7o1
— Zach Klein (@ZachKleinWSB) March 14, 2022
A couple of days ago, Brian Snitker also raved about how hard Acuña has worked to stay ahead of schedule.
Brian Snitker said the Braves will have to see Ronald Acuña Jr. in camp before delivering a timetable for his return, but: "I know the reports are really good. Really good. I guess he's worked his rear off."
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) March 13, 2022
If it were up to Acuña, he would undoubtedly be out there on Opening Day. And truthfully, I think he would probably be just fine. However, that’s not a risk you take with arguably the best player in baseball. Until Acuña is 100% cleared by the Braves’ doctors, I highly doubt we see him on the field, which means it’s possible he doesn’t make his debut until June.
This is burying the entire lede of today, but Alex Anthopoulos, when discussing the Braves' other needs, said Ronald Acuña Jr. likely can't play the field until late May at this point.
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) March 14, 2022
With the DH now in the National League, hopefully, we see him before late May in some capacity, but I can’t imagine it will be much earlier than that, even if there are no setbacks. The Braves simply can’t afford to take any risks with the new face of their franchise.
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