The Atlanta Braves have renewed optimism as the 2026 season approaches. The team underwent a managerial change with Walt Weiss replacing Brian Snitker and improved its roster depth across the board, addressing one of the biggest issues that contributed to last year’s disappointment.
Much of that strain on depth came from injuries to everyday players, and none were more impactful than the absence of right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. He played only 95 games after debuting late in the 2025 season due to his recovery from an ACL tear, followed by another injured list stint caused by a right calf strain.
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Even so, he still reminded everyone of his superstar ability, earning National League Comeback Player of the Year in limited time.
Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (13) © Brett Davis-Imagn Images
(© Brett Davis-Imagn Images)
Acuna’s focus is on leading the Braves back to the postseason with Opening Day just weeks away, but he will momentarily shift that attention to the World Baseball Classic.
Acuna has committed to play for Team Venezuela, where he will be the face of the roster and one of the tournament’s biggest superstars. There had been questions about when he would leave camp, and on Saturday that answer arrived. He said his goodbyes to Weiss and packed his bags for the WBC.
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“Ronald Acuna Jr. just made his leave of Braves camp to join Venezuela national team for WBC. He gave hugs to Walt Weiss (he called him ‘Jefe’) and team interpreter Franco García and walked off, equipment bag over his shoulder,” reported Ken Sugiura of AJC.
Eventually, Acuna’s focus will shift back to Braves’ camp, and the organization hopes the WBC serves as valuable fine‑tuning for what is a pivotal year. Beyond the obvious goal of staying healthy, he will look to return to peak form.
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Last season, the 28‑year‑old right fielder posted a .290 batting average, .413 on‑base percentage, .935 OPS, 21 home runs and 42 RBIs, earning his fifth All‑Star selection. However, his defense took a noticeable step back following the second ACL tear of his career, and he stole only nine bases, far from the dynamic threat he was in 2023 when he became the only player in MLB history to record a 40‑home run, 70‑steal season.
Acuna now enters 2026 determined to reestablish himself as the most explosive player in baseball and help Atlanta return to the playoffs.
Related: Braves’ Austin Riley Makes Announcement Amid Spring Training
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.