The Atlanta Braves welcomed back their superstar Ronald Acuna Jr. on Thursday night after he had been out since July with a torn ACL.
Acuna was obviously not active for the Braves during their epic postseason run that culminated in them winning their first World Series title since 1995.
But last night, he returned, starting in right field and hitting from his typical leadoff spot.
Acuna picked up his first hit of the season as the Braves rolled to a 5-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs in their series finale.
Marcell Ozuna commented on Acuna’s return, expressing excitement about having him back and the direction that the team is headed in.
Marcell Ozuna on Ronald Acuña Jr.'s return to the #Braves lineup: “That’s good for everyone. That’s the moment everybody was waiting for. We got him back, and I think we’re going to start winning games.”
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) April 29, 2022
Braves Ready To Take Flight
Acuna’s return is a major boon for the defending World Series champions.
The Braves made their run to the title without several key pieces, with Acuna and Ozuna being the most notable.
But Acuna is back in action and ready to help the Braves defend their World Series title.
The Braves’ start to the 2022 season has been less than stellar.
Despite their win last night over the Cubs, they still have a record of 9-11 and sit in fourth place in the National League East division, five games back of the first-place New York Mets.
But maybe with Acuna back, there’s something to Ozuna’s theory.
The Braves are still a very dangerous team on paper and look like a serious threat to repeat their success from a year ago.
This team still has the potential to be a powerhouse as the season progresses.
We’ll see if Ozuna is right and if Acuna’s return can help get them going again.
There’s still plenty of season left.
NEXT: Braves Have A Perfect Spot For Ronald Acuna Jr. In His Return