When Ronald Acuña Jr. stepped up to the plate on May 23, 2025, he launched a 467-foot home run on the first pitch he saw. It was more than a great moment; it was a testament to a meticulously planned and executed recovery. This comeback differs significantly from his 2022 return following his first ACL injury. Here’s why.
Extended and Patient Rehabilitation
After tearing his right ACL in July 2021, Acuña returned approximately nine months after the injury. However, this swift return saw him struggle to regain his pre-injury form, leading to a season that fell short of expectations and intermittent playing time. Learning from this experience, Acuña and the Braves adopted a more cautious approach following his left ACL tear in May 2024. This time, he took nearly a year to rehabilitate, because he and the Braves wanted to do it right this time. Now we should see him at 100% awesomeness.
Focused Offseason Training
Acuña dedicated his offseason to an intensive training regimen, focusing on building strength and stability. Working closely with the Braves’ training staff, he engaged in five-hour sessions six days a week. The focus was on strengthening his lower body to enhance his performance, since so much of baseball comes from the legs and core, and to strengthen and stabilize his knees.
Acuña Will Steal Bases Selectively
Recognizing the toll that aggressive base running took on his body, Acuña has expressed a desire to be more selective with stolen base attempts. He stated, “I’d rather steal 30 and play the whole season as opposed to trying to steal 70, injuring myself and missing the whole year”.
Mental Maturity and Resilience
Having experienced the challenges of returning from a significant injury once before, Acuña approached his second rehabilitation with greater mental fortitude. He acknowledged the importance of patience and the value of listening to his body, stating that he feels in a much better place mentally and physically this time. This maturity is expected to translate into more consistent and confident performances on the field. He reiterated the patient approach in the press conference following his first game back.
Immediate Impact Upon Return
Acuña’s first at-bat in his 2025 return was spectacular. His first game back had plenty of highlights. It was a fantastic start to his 2025 return.
Conclusion
We anxiously await watching him in the lineup each day moving forward. This is where the rubber meets the road. We hope to see the year of rehabilitation pay off for Ronald and the Braves.
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