Atlanta Braves: Ronald Acuna Piling Up Meaningless Stats
By Kit Anderson
Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. has been sizzling hot this spring piling up stats. While the stats may be meaningless in spring the talent that Acuna is flashing isn’t.
The Atlanta Braves couldn’t be happier with the spring that Ronald Acuna Jr. is having. Acuna is answering any questions as to whether or not he is ready for the Majors. Showing speed, power, and a great fielding ability fans cannot wait for Acuna to arrive.
Waiting however, will be exactly what the Braves have to do as Acuna will begin the season in the minors. If he stays with AAA until two weeks into the season the Braves will have at least another year of control.
For a kid that looks to be a star player that is a non-decision. That means the Braves will likely begin the season with Lane Adams or Preston Tucker in left field.
Once Acuna does arrive it wouldn’t be at all surprising to see him quickly rise in the lineup. If he can translate the power hitting ability that he has shown in Spring Training he could soon be protecting Freddie Freeman.
Acuna will help supplement for a literally weak lineup as well, that lacks power relying on contact hitters.
While on the subject of Acuna many Braves fans are cautious considering the recent busts that the Braves top prospects have been. Taking a cautious approach is understandable but Acuna is as close to a sure thing as a prospect can be.
Acuna has piled up 16 hits including 4 homers and 4 stolen bases as he continues to light up Spring Training pitching.