Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuna Jr. to miss remainder of season with torn ACL

The Atlanta Braves (30-20) received some damning news: Reigning National League MVP Ronald Acuña, Jr. will miss the remainder of the 2024 season after tearing his ACL in a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday.

The Braves released a statement on Acuña’s injury, revealing that an MRI of the MVP’s left knee showed a completely torn ACL. Acuña will have surgery, according to the team update.

RELATED: Oh no: Braves star Ronald Acuna leaves game after suffering non-contact knee injury

The Braves shared on 2024. season.”

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 26: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves is tended to by trainer and third base coach Matt Tuiasosopo #89 after falling to the ground with an apparent injury during the first inning of the game against Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on May 26, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)

Ronald Acuña Jr. will miss the remainder of the 2024 season. Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)

Acuña’s non-contact injury occurred as he started with a lead at second base, braking as he moved toward third and awkwardly bending his left knee. He left the game in the first inning after spending several minutes on the ground, eventually leaving the field unassisted. He previously tore his right ACL in 2021.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 26: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves leaves the field with trainers after an apparent injury in the first inning during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on May 26, 2024 in Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)

Acuña posted a message on his social media following the explosive announcement, apologizing to Braves fans as they prepare to play 112 games this year without his production.

Last season, Ronald Acuña’s elite numbers helped the Braves reach 104 wins. He totaled 41 home runs, adding 73 stolen bases. This season, Acuña has maintained a lead in stolen bases, accumulating 16 heading into Sunday’s game against the Pirates. The reigning MVP’s production hasn’t met expectations, but his offensive contributions will still be missed in Braves Country. Acuña slashed 246/.348/.356, adding four homers and 15 RBIs in 48 games.

(Can the Braves win the NL East against the Phillies without Ronald Acuña, Jr.? Send us your thoughts: [email protected])

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