After enduring a brutal setback last May, Ronald Acuña Jr. is nearly back to full strength, just in time for the 2025 season. The Atlanta Braves’ superstar outfielder, fresh off being named the 2023 National League MVP, shared an optimistic update on his recovery from a torn ACL, revealing that his left knee is now functioning at about 90-95%.

Acuña’s injury occurred on May 26, 2024, during a stolen-base attempt against the Pittsburgh Pirates. A surgical procedure on June 4, performed by renowned Los Angeles Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache, followed shortly after, setting the stage for his long rehabilitation process.

Acuña, who tore his right ACL back in 2021 and missed Atlanta’s World Series run, has been through the recovery grind before. But this time, he feels different. Reflecting on his past, the 25-year-old outfielder said he feels significantly more stable in the knee this time around. “Compared to my previous experience, I would feel more stable,” Acuña said. “I’m just working to get it all back to where I know it can be.”

The Braves, who are already eyeing another championship run in 2025, are eager to have Acuña fully healthy. Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos echoed that sentiment, saying, “We think getting him back is going to be huge for us.”

Acuña’s MVP season in 2023 was one for the ages, as he posted a .337 batting average with 41 home runs, 106 RBIs, and an MLB-leading 73 stolen bases. His return to full strength would be a game-changer for a Braves team poised to defend its NL East crown and make another deep postseason run.