Ronald Acuna Jr. Suffers ACL Tear: Done for the 2021 Season

Introduction

On the evening of July 10, 2021, the Atlanta Braves lost their promising right-handed outfielder, Ronald Acuna Jr. , who suffered a torn right ACL while playing in right field during a 5 to 4 victory against the Miami Marlins in their National League East matchup. This serious injury will necessitate surgery for Acuna Jr. As a result, he will not participate in the remainder of the 2021 Major League Baseball season, but both he and the Braves are optimistic about his recovery in time for the 2022 MLB season.

The Injury

In a critical moment during the 5th inning, Acuna Jr. landed awkwardly on his right leg while attempting to catch a line drive hit by Jazz Chisholm Jr. of the Miami Marlins. He collided with the outfield wall at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida, while showcasing his trademark defensive skills. Unfortunately, this valiant effort led to him collapsing on the warning track, clutching his right knee in agony.

In the aftermath of the unfortunate incident where Chisholm Jr. scored an inside-the-park home run, Acuna Jr. struggled to stand and needed assistance to leave the field due to the severe and painful injury he sustained to his knee. Medical personnel on-site quickly had him transported off the field for immediate care.

After conducting medical evaluations, the Atlanta Braves confirmed that Ronald had indeed torn his right ACL and would need surgery to repair the damaged ligament, effectively sidelining the 23-year-old star for the entire season. Acuna Jr. He was promptly placed on the 60-day injured list, which means he will miss the rest of the 2021 MLB season. However, the Atlanta Braves have expressed their hope for a full recovery, and anticipate his return to the field during the next regular season, barring any complications in his healing process.

Media Statements

'All I can say is that I'm going to put in my utmost effort to return even stronger,' Acuna Jr. conveyed during a Zoom call on July 11, 2021, with the help of interpreter Franco Garcia. 'If I was giving 500 percent before, now I'm going to give 1,000 percent. I knew something was wrong, but I didn’t fully grasp the severity until the doctor explained it later. There’s nothing I can do about it now. I can't control things that are beyond my control.' Atlanta Braves’ 'I believe I’m a patient individual, and I think that quality will benefit me,' Acuna stated. 'I will continue to work diligently, trust in the rehabilitation process, and put in the effort because you will reap what you sow. (Being voted in means a lot to me),' Acuna Jr. added. 'In that respect, the fans who took the time to vote for me deserve this recognition just as much as I do. I owe it to them to give my best.'

'When I received the news about the ACL, I felt a wave of sadness. Playing is my passion and what I long to do. I’m truly disheartened for the team because I know they need me, and I want to support them in any way possible. I hold immense faith in my teammates to step up and perform exceptionally well,' Acuna Jr. shared.