The Atlanta Braves have a difficult decision facing the franchise over the next two years as they weigh the future of Ronald Acuna Jr. It is easy to argue that an extension shouldn't be an option based on the injuries that never seem to end. However, the flip side of this is understanding that the Braves have a losing record without Acuna in the lineup, and it isn't close. When the outfielder has been healthy, the Braves have been the best team in the league and one of the most productive lineups.
When Acuna is out, the Braves are well below .500 and have been painfully average offensively. What is so difficult about this is understanding the injury risks with an extension while looking at the tall task of replacing such a dynamic offensive presence. Even when Acuna isn't hitting at the highest level, there is an undeniable energy around having the 2023 MVP healthy.
Whether it is putting pressure on the defense with his speed or finding infectious joy in small moments, the impact of Acuna is clear. The outfielder drastically alters Atlanta's ability to win and lose; this isn't something that can be taken lightly.
This is the struggle that Atlanta's front office is going to be facing as the franchise attempts to answer this conundrum, which is clear without an obvious, easy avenue to take.
Braves Have Clear Reason for Concern Around Future of Ronald Acuna Jr.
The Braves allowing Acuna to walk away makes sense on its face when you consider the fact that the next extension is likely to set records if signed in Atlanta. It is hard to justify signing such a deal after two major knee injuries and consistent, smaller issues have left Acuna out of the lineup and facing mounting questions about his ability to stay on the field.
With this in mind, Atlanta needs to begin to consider what the future holds and what gamble looks more appealing. Extending Acuna or opting to allow the veteran to walk away are both undeniable risks that come with their own unique questions.
June has served as a reminder of this, as Atlanta's lineup has struggled since Acuna's most recent injury, and that has shown up in their record. Still, you cannot deny that a part of the reason for these struggles is due to an inability to stay on the field when the team needs him most.
Atlanta does have the luxury of time with two years of team control remaining. However, it wouldn't be surprising to see Acuna's camp begin to push for an answer, understanding his importance to the franchise and the continued injury risks playing out the current deal.
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