Braves-Mariners Ronald Acuña Jr. Trade Proposal Made by MLB Insider originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Since returning in May from a second torn ACL, Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. has been in a class by himself in his eighth major-league season.
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Acuña burst onto the scene in 2018, capturing NL Rookie of the Year honors and immediately staking his claim as one of the game’s brightest stars.
In April 2019, Acuña cemented his future with an eight-year, $100 million extension through 2028, becoming the youngest player ever to sign a contract worth at least $100 million.
He’s now a four-time All-Star, three-time Silver Slugger and the 2023 NL MVP, his comebacks from knee surgeries only underscoring his toughness.
Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. (13)Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Even though Acuña came back to peak form just months after his second ACL tear in 2024, the Braves have struggled overall and been decimatedby injuries.
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On an MLB Now segment, insider Joel Sherman asked, “Should they trade Acuña right now?”
Sherman argued that Atlanta’s championship window may be closing—four key starters are injured long-term, bats like Ozzie Albies and Michael Harris have regressed, and the farm system lacks depth. With three years and $51 million remaining on Acuña’s deal, Sherman suggested the Braves could recoup “Juan Soto–level” talent by trading the superstar.
On the other hand, Sherman zeroed in on Seattle’s farm system—“they’ve got nine top-100 prospects and a lot of duplication in the middle infield,” he said, implying the Braves could use those prospects in a potential return to improve their infield.
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Through 35 games this season, Acuña has a batting average of .350, OPS of 1.076, nine home runs, 18 RBIs and four stolen bases. Even as the Braves struggle, his elite production remains at the top of the lineup, ensuring any trade would demand top-tier talent in return.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 3, 2025, where it first appeared.