The Atlanta Braves were given exciting news this week with Ronald Acuña Jr. being named the National League Player of the Week.
Despite Atlanta's team struggles, the league has taken notice of the star's impressive return to the Braves lineup. This is the absolute best version of Acuña; there isn't an easy out to be found anytime the star is at the plate. It has had the needed impact on the Braves offense and provided a spark over the last week that gives hope the season might not be as over as it appeared to be.
Acuña is hitting .390, already amassing seven home runs while racking up 30 hits in an incredibly short amount of time (21 games, 77 at-bats). It is a reminder of why the outfielder must be included in any potential debate when talking about the best player in the league.
Your NL Player of the Week: @ronaldacunajr24! pic.twitter.com/MSGtUjKXgB
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) June 16, 2025
Ronald Acuña Jr. Named NL Player of the Week (June 9-15)
Acuña demands a place in this conversation when he is at his best, and there is no questioning that the version of the hitter Braves fans are currently watching is the absolute best of an incredible player.
This isn't to argue that Acuña hasn't gone on more impressive power runs or hasn't been a driving force in the Braves' hot streaks. Rather, the former NL MVP has the most complete approach and appears as healthy as Atlanta has seen since the star's early seasons with the franchise. After missing two seasons with two different knee injuries, it is a welcome sight to have the 27-year-old superstar healthy and setting the tone for an inconsistent Atlanta lineup.
It is hard to argue against Acuña earning the honor, and hopefully, it is a sign of an incredible season that is still ahead. While Atlanta's playoff chances continue to remain incredibly slim, there is still plenty of reason to watch this team. The exciting starting pitching and the Braves leadoff hitter are the top two reasons fans have to continue to watch, despite how frustrating of a year the 2025 season has been.
There is also the quickly approaching return of outfielder Jurickson Profar, who should help Acuña by boosting the team's lineup. Regardless, it is an amazing start for the Braves star and a welcome addition to a team that so badly needed Acuña's energy and production.