The highly anticipated return of 2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. has finally happened — and just in time for a key rivalry series against the Philadelphia Phillies. After missing most of the 2024 season recovering from ACL surgery on his right knee, the Atlanta Braves’ star outfielder made his long-awaited comeback Friday night. The Braves will be counting on Acuña Jr. to help boost their push back into NL East contention.
He wasted no time making an impact, launching a home run on the very first pitch he faced from ex-Phillie and current Padre Nick Pivetta. In his first two games back, Acuña Jr. went 3-for-9 with two home runs and three RBIs. Unfortunately for the Phillies, they’ll be facing him and the Braves at Citizens Bank Park starting Tuesday for a three-game series.
For Philadelphia, Acuña Jr.’s return couldn’t come at a worse time. While the Phillies are surging — riding a nine-game win streak and holding MLB’s best record at 34-18 — the Braves have struggled, sitting at 25-26 and 8.5 games behind in the NL East as of Sunday.
If anyone can reignite Atlanta’s offense, it’s the man who created the 40/70 club. The Braves currently rank 13th in MLB with a .713 team OPS and are hoping their MVP’s return will jumpstart a turnaround. The last time these two teams met (April 8–10 in Atlanta), the Braves took two of three, including a dramatic walk-off win in extra innings.
Although the Phillies’ recent hot streak came against weaker opponents, they’ve handled business as strong teams should. Facing a revitalized Braves squad with Acuña Jr. will be their first real challenge in a while — one they’ll be ready to meet.
The Phillies are still feeling the effects of José Alvarado’s suspension and haven’t yet settled on a bullpen plan. So far, they’ve managed, but the upcoming series with Atlanta presents a tough test. It’s also a chance for the Phillies to get payback and widen the gap in the division standings.