Just before the Braves’ game against the Nationals, Ronald Acuña Jr. made his first major media appearance of the season at Truist Park. Naturally, attention turned to the recent “lack of hustle” controversy that stemmed from a now-deleted tweet Acuña had posted — one that, while accurate, caused a stir.
Even though fans and others supported him, the issue still created a distraction for the team during his absence. So it was only fitting that Acuña addressed the matter with his teammates and manager.
Thankfully, it appears the issue is now behind them. Acuña began his press conference by directly addressing the incident, saying he had spoken with his teammates and manager and that everything had been resolved. “We talked it out and we’re good,” he said. “I apologized for being a distraction and wanted to clear the air. We’re moving on.”
Acuña stressed that he took the necessary steps to make things right. “It was just a moment of frustration,” he said through translator Franco Garcia. “I apologized face-to-face to Snitker and the team. We’re all turning the page.”
When asked what led to the tweet in the first place, Acuña explained it came from his frustration over being sidelined with injury while the team was struggling. “It was hard being in Florida, away from my teammates and not able to contribute,” he said. “I take pride in being part of this organization.”
He reiterated those feelings of helplessness throughout the presser, noting that it was especially tough to watch the team go through a rough stretch and not be able to help. “That was the hardest part — not being there to do something about it,” he said. But now, he added, the focus is on moving forward and rejoining the team.
Despite the controversy, Acuña emphasized his love for Atlanta and the Braves. “I want to be here my whole career,” he said. “That’s why it was so frustrating not to be with my teammates.”
When asked whether any tension remained in the clubhouse, Acuña made it clear that everything had been smoothed over. “I took accountability and talked to everyone directly,” he said. “We have a good relationship and a strong bond. We’re ready to move forward.”
After the game, pitcher Bryce Elder and manager Brian Snitker confirmed Acuña’s version of events. Elder said Acuña had addressed the team before the game and handled the situation well. Snitker praised Acuña for initiating the conversations and said it was good to see him again. “He looked lean and healthy, and I think he was sincere,” said Snitker.
Looking ahead, Acuña expressed excitement about returning to the field. “I’m super excited and anxious to get back with the team,” he said. “I just need to be ready for the fastball,” he added with a smile.
Physically, he said he feels 100%, thanks to a year-long rehab process. “We stuck to our plan, and it paid off,” he said. When asked how long he expects to stay in his rehab stint, Acuña joked, “You’ll have to ask the boss,” referring to Snitker.
Acuña also said that this rehab has gone better than his first ACL recovery, adding that the additional rest this time around has been beneficial. “Last time I had to DH or take days off. This time, I think the approach we took will help me stay on the field. Vacation’s over.”
Indeed, with Acuña now back in action and making rehab starts, the Braves’ time without their star outfielder is nearing its end — and his return couldn’t come at a better time.