Why is Ronald Acuña Jr. Not Playing?
Ronald Acuña Jr., the Atlanta Braves superstar, was scratched from the lineup just before Tuesday night’s game against the Oakland Athletics due to lower back tightness.
This development comes after his much-anticipated return from a torn ACL that sidelined him for almost a year. The Braves are taking a cautious approach given his recent injury history and the importance of keeping him healthy for the long term.
What Happened to Ronald Acuña Jr.?
Acuña suffered a torn ACL in his left knee in May 2024, which ended his season and required extensive rehab. He returned to action in late May 2025, just shy of the injury’s one-year anniversary.
Since his return, Acuña has been closely monitored by the Braves' medical staff.
The team has emphasized caution, especially after his second major knee injury, which has led to a more conservative playing style to minimize future risks.
Is Ronald Acuña Jr. Playing Tonight?
As of July 9, 2025, Acuña is not in the Braves’ lineup due to lower back tightness. His status is considered day-to-day, and the team will reevaluate him before making any decisions about his participation in upcoming games, including the All-Star Game and Home Run Derby.
Ronald Acuña Jr. News
Injury Update: Scratched from the lineup with lower back tightness.
Comeback: Returned from ACL surgery in late May 2025 and has played 40 games since.
Social Media: Acuña has been active on social media, recently apologizing to teammates and management over a controversial post and expressing his desire to focus on the team’s success.
Performance: Despite injuries, he remains one of MLB’s most dynamic players, with a .331 average and 9 home runs in 40 games since returning.
Ronald Acuña Jr. Stats (2025 Season)
| Games | Hits | Home Runs | RBI | Batting Avg | OBP | SLG | OPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | 46 | 9 | 18 | .331 | .450 | .713 | 1.188 |
Ronald Acuña Jr. Trade Rumors
Despite the Braves’ struggles in 2025, trade rumors involving Acuña have surfaced, largely fueled by speculation rather than substantive reports.
ESPN recently proposed hypothetical trades, but analysts widely agree that a deal is highly unlikely. Acuña’s immense talent, age, and team-friendly contract make him one of the most valuable assets in baseball, and the Braves would require an unprecedented return to consider moving him.
Ronald Acuña Jr. Contract Breakdown
| Year Signed | Length | Total Value | Avg. Salary | Options | Free Agent Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 8 years | $100M | $12.5M | 2027, 2028 (Club) | 2029 |
- Extension Details: Acuña’s contract runs through 2026, with club options for 2027 and 2028 at $17 million each. It is considered one of the most team-friendly deals for a superstar in MLB.
- Guaranteed Money: $100 million over eight years, with potential for $134 million if both options are exercised
FAQ
Question 1: Why did Ronald Acuña Jr. miss the game on July 9, 2025?
Answer: He was scratched from the lineup due to lower back tightness, and his status is day-to-day.
Question 2: What was Ronald Acuña Jr.’s major injury?
Answer: He suffered a torn ACL in his left knee in May 2024, which required surgery and a lengthy rehab.
Question 3: Is Ronald Acuña Jr. being traded?
Answer: There are rumors and hypothetical trade proposals, but a trade is highly unlikely given his value and contract status.
Question 4: What are Ronald Acuña Jr.’s stats for 2025?
Answer: He has played 40 games, hitting .331 with 9 home runs and 18 RBIs.
Question 5: How long is Ronald Acuña Jr. under contract with the Braves?
Answer: He is signed through 2026, with club options for 2027 and 2028
Disclaimer
The information provided above is based on publicly available reports, official team announcements, and reputable sports media sources as of July 9, 2025. Injury updates, roster decisions, and trade speculation are subject to change as new developments occur. Any trade rumors mentioned are speculative unless confirmed by official team sources or Major League Baseball. Stats and contract details are current to the best of our knowledge but should be verified through official MLB platforms for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official confirmation or insider reporting.
