As the 2025 MLB season passes its midpoint, one of the most intriguing developments revolves around Atlanta Braves’ star Ronald Acuna Jr.
The 2023 National League MVP has returned from his second ACL tear and, offensively, he continues to produce at an elite level. But what’s drawing the attention of analysts is the noteworthy decrease in one prominent category.
Acuna’s game following his injury is a tempered approach to baserunning. In 2023, he was a terror on the basepaths, swiping a league-leading 73 bases and consistently taking extra bases with reckless abandon.
Offensive Power Remains Intact
Acuna has always been known as a complete player. Hitting once or twice per game, rather than just coping with streaky plate appearances. Since his May 23 return, he’s maintaining commendable numbers — hitting .390 with a .720 slugging percentage and eight home runs through 23 games. Despite injuries, his ability to dominate at the plate hasn’t wavered.
He’s attempted just one steal through 18-plus games and has noticeably pulled back from taking aggressive extra bases, per Mike Axisa of CBS Sports. He’s less likely to go first-to-third on a single or score from second on a base hit.
“Acuña’s coming back from his second torn ACL and it hasn’t even been a month since he returned from the injured list,” Axisa wrote. “I would have been surprised if Acuña wasn’t taking it easy on the bases so soon after a major knee injury.”
Acuna finished 1-for-3 with a huge homer that pushed the team to victory on Wednesday. He’ll be taking his eight-game hitting streak into a battle with righty Clay Holmes and the New York Mets on Thursday at 7:15 PM ET.
But the restraint on his baserunning is deliberate, not a sign of diminished talent or speed. After enduring two ACL tears, the smart move appears to be what Acuna and the Braves are currently leaning towards.
What It Means for the Braves
For Atlanta, this shift could be a net positive. While losing some stolen bases might seem like a downgrade, Acuna’s ability to stay healthy and contribute consistently outweighs the value of high-risk baserunning. The Braves benefit from having their star player available day after day, maintaining offensive production and leadership.
However, many appreciate the wisdom in preserving his health and recognize the importance of adapting.
There remains a growing consensus that Acuna’s strategic shift is smart and necessary — especially for a player still with a bright career ahead at just 27.
The Braves have been able to string together a significant two-game win streak against the Mets, with a 5-4 extra-innings victory on Tuesday and a 5-0 shutout behind the favorable arm of Chris Sale on Wednesday. So things are starting to click for a team that’s going to need its star players fully healthy for a second-half run.
Looking ahead, analysts and fans predict that Acuna will settle into a hybrid style for the Braves — still a threat on the bases but with a more cautious approach, possibly aiming for around 20 steals per season and focusing on efficiency rather than volume.
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