Atlanta, Georgia – The Atlanta Braves are facing a major setback with the news that star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., the reigning National League Most Valuable Player, will miss the remainder of the 2024 season due to a torn ACL. This devastating injury occurred during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates when Acuña attempted to change direction while running the bases. This marks the third time in his career that Acuña has been sidelined by an ACL-related injury.
As the Braves are now six games behind the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East, the team is faced with the challenge of finding suitable replacements for Acuña. With limited options within the team, they may need to explore external options before Major League Baseball’s July 30 trade deadline. Players like Adam Duvall, J.P. Martínez, Forrest Wall, and Luke Williams could be considered to fill the void left by Acuña’s absence.
Several potential trade targets have been identified, including Pham, Ward, Rooker, De La Cruz, and Winker. Pham, known for his strong performance and reliability despite his age, may be a valuable addition to any team looking for outfield depth. Ward, on track for one of his best seasons, could be a promising asset for the Braves or other teams in need. Rooker’s boom-or-bust playing style could make him an interesting option for teams willing to take the risk. De La Cruz, a breakout candidate with room for improvement, might benefit from a change of scenery. Winker, who has shown promise in bouncing back from lackluster seasons, could be a valuable asset against right-handed pitchers if paired with a platoon partner.
The Braves front office, along with other teams in similar situations, will need to carefully evaluate their options to make the best decisions leading up to the trade deadline. As the season progresses, teams will be looking to strengthen their rosters and make strategic moves to enhance their chances of success in the postseason. The loss of Acuña is undoubtedly a blow to the Braves, but with careful planning and strategic acquisitions, they may still have a fighting chance in the competitive National League East.