Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. is set to undergo a comprehensive evaluation of his troublesome right knee on Monday in Los Angeles, under the supervision of Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the surgeon who previously performed reconstructive surgery on Acuña’s ACL in July 2021, as announced by a team official on Saturday.
The decision comes in the wake of an MRI conducted on Friday that revealed irritation around the meniscus in Acuña’s knee.
Acuña was sidelined from the Braves lineup for Friday’s spring training game as a precautionary measure, with initial expectations suggesting a potential return within a few days. However, the outlook shifted following the MRI results later that day.
While the Braves remain hopeful about Acuña’s availability for Opening Day, the trajectory of his recovery relies heavily on further assessments by Dr. ElAttrache. If arthroscopic surgery becomes necessary to address the meniscus damage, Acuña could be facing several weeks of recuperation, raising doubts about his readiness for the season opener.
The duration of his absence could be notably shortened if the irritation resolves without surgical intervention. However, the possibility of additional damage being uncovered during further examinations might prolong Acuña’s recovery, a scenario that both the Braves and their supporters are keen to avoid.
Braves manager Brian Snitker expressed cautious optimism while acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Acuña’s condition pending the doctor’s evaluation.
The decision to transport Acuña cross-country for examination by his surgeon underscores the seriousness of the situation, particularly in light of his previous experiences with post-surgery soreness in 2022.
Acuña, recognized as a pivotal figure in the Braves lineup, would undoubtedly leave a significant void in the team’s performance during his absence. His contributions played a crucial role in the Braves’ achievements in the preceding season, culminating in their sixth consecutive NL East title.
Reflecting on Acuña’s impact, Snitker emphasized his significance to the team and the wider baseball community, highlighting the collective hope for a swift resolution to his current setback.
Acuña’s outstanding performance in 2023, marked by his inclusion in the exclusive 40-40 club and securing the NL MVP title, firmly established his position as a cornerstone player for the Braves.
Despite his offseason preparations and apparent fitness upon reporting to spring training, the recent setback has prompted questions regarding the origin of his knee irritation, whether stemming from specific in-game incidents or intensified training regimes.
As the Braves navigate through Acuña’s injury, they remain optimistic for a timely resolution, recognizing the crucial role he plays in their quest for success on the field.
