ATLANTA Braves star outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. is out for the season after tearing his ACL.
The reigning National League MVP was left limping as he rounded the bases on Sunday, and an MRI later revealed his torn ACL.
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The Braves initially labeled the injury as left knee soreness before they were able to take Acuna for an MRI.
He also initially downplayed the severity, comparing the pain to an ACL sprain he suffered in 2018 rather than a tear.
Acuna, always a competitor, was devastated by the injury and apologized to the fans for missing the rest of the season.
He posted a quick message saying “sorry” on his X account, followed by a broken heart emoji.
Thousands of fans weighed in on his comments to share their support for the MVP player.
“Ronnie, we’re only worried about you. Don’t apologize. Hang in there,” one fan said.
“No need to apologize. Get well soon. We can’t wait until you get back!” another fan said.
“I hope for a quick and successful recovery. Injuries suck, man,” said a third fan.
“I love you, man. You will be back,” said a fourth fan.
The ACL tear is especially brutal as 2023 was Acuna’s first full season back after tearing the ACL in his right knee in 2021.
Over a four-year period, he tore the cruciate ligaments in both knees.
Clearly, the first time he suffered the injury didn’t affect his play after recovery, as he won the 2023 MVP after missing the 2021 season and most of 2022.
However, Acuna was struggling to start this season, slashing just .246/.348/.356 with four home runs in 48 games.
Acuna’s recovery is not expected, but he will undergo surgery soon to repair his ACL.
It’s possible he could miss some time to start the 2024 season.
Home runs and boomsticks
MLB is back in London for the third time this summer when the Philadelphia Phillies take on the New York Mets.
The London Stadium will transform from a football field to a baseball field for the June 8th and 9th spectacle.
Fans attending games can indulge in some extravagant stadium menu items, like boomstick nachos (pictured) and a 2-foot boomstick hot dog.
The New York Yankees won both games in 2019 against the rival Boston Red Sox.
And the Chicago Cubs split their series with the St Louis Cardinals when the teams meet in 2023.
The Braves are now forced into a difficult situation to replace Acuna, who is 8.2 wins above replacement in 2023.
They currently have just one backup outfielder, Adam Duval, on the roster, and will likely turn to the trade market for reinforcements.
Acuna is the second season-ending injury the Braves have suffered in 2024.
Ace pitcher Spencer Strider underwent season-ending elbow surgery early in the season due to a UCL injury.
The Braves are currently six games behind the Phillies for first place in the National League East.
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
