Ronald Acuna Jr. has been at the big league level since 2018, and the Atlanta Braves franchise player as soon as he stepped foot on the diamond. Alex Anthopoulos knew how special Acuna Jr. was even at age 21, and that is why the Braves felt lucky to lock him up on a long-term deal back in 2019. Since signing that deal, Acuna Jr. has been selected to the All-Star team five times, won three Silver Sluggers, and took home the 2023 NL MVP.
However, that original contract signed is approaching it’s end, as Acuna Jr. will enter 2026 on the final guaranteed year of his deal. Both the 2027 and 2028 seasons come with $17 million club options for RAJ, which are a mortal lock to be exercised barring a catastrophe. However, if Anthopoulos wants to make Acuna Jr. a Brave for life, this next calendar year may be the time to approach Acuna Jr. with a new contract extension.
Bleacher Report lists Ronald Acuña Jr. as a name to watch regarding a big contract
In a recent article from Bleacher Report, they listed 10 players across MLB that could be in line to land a contract of at least $250 million. Names like Tarik Skubal, Paul Skenes, James Wood, and others can be found on this list. However, the article has a brief honorable mention section, where Ronald Acuna Jr.’s name can be found.
As the article points out, should Acuna hit free agency at 31 years-old after the 2028 season, it’s not outlandish to see him landing a eight year $250 million contract. That’s precisely why Anthopoulos needs to get out in front of an Acuna Jr. contract extension while he can. Players as good as Ronald Acuna Jr. don’t hit the free agent market often and when they do, they land AAV’s north of $40 million like Juan Soto got last winter.
The great thing about Acuna is his openness about wanting to be a Brave for life. He truly loves the city of Atlanta, and he cares about being one of the best players in baseball for as long as he is on the field. However, his ability to remain on the field more often is the biggest caveat to approaching RAJ with a new long-term deal.
Ronald is a generational hitter and will likely continue to be for the remainder of his career. However, after two major knee surgeries Acuna’s defense has predictably taken a step back. Because of his limited mobility in the outfield, Acuna could very well transition to a DH role as he plays into his 30’s.
Honestly, that is more than fine with most Braves fans as that effort would certainly help keep Acuna Jr. healthier in the long run. If Anthopoulos is going to make Acuna Jr. a Brave for life, and accompany that long-term deal with the necessary finances, there has to be an in house commitment to keeping Ronald healthy and in the lineup.
