The Atlanta Braves received troubling news just days after the return of Ronald Acuña Jr. to the Major Leagues. The Venezuelan star left Thursday’s game against the Miami Marlins as a precautionary measure due to discomfort in his left thumb, a situation that now keeps the organization and millions of fans on alert.
Atlanta defeated Miami 9-1, but the victory was put on the back burner after the early departure of the team’s current offensive leader. Ronald Acuña Jr. left the game after the fifth inning and was later evaluated by the Braves’ medical staff. Manager Walt Weiss confirmed that the outfielder has a bone contusion in his left thumb. Fortunately for the team, the x-rays were negative and no fracture was detected, so the Venezuelan will be monitored day by day to determine his availability for the next games.
Wants to continue playing despite the pain
Despite the scare, Ronald Acuña Jr. made it clear that his intention is to remain active and return as soon as possible to the field with the Braves.
According to club reports, the player tried to convince the coaching staff to immediately include him in Friday’s lineup against the Washington Nationals.
“I will play no matter what. It’s not about whether I want to play tomorrow, it’s that I will play tomorrow,” the Venezuelan said after the match.
Acuña’s competitive attitude is not surprising in MLB.
The player has been characterized throughout his career by his intensity and leadership within the Atlanta clubhouse.
Especially after overcoming significant injuries in recent seasons.
When did the injury occur?
I'll play no matter what
Ronald Acuña Jr.
The Bravos’ own coaching staff acknowledged that Ronald Acuña Jr. is not completely clear about the exact moment in which he suffered the blow to his thumb.
However, it is suspected that it may have occurred during one of his at-bats at the beginning of the fifth episode.
Television cameras caught the Venezuelan talking to the physical trainers while pointing to his left hand before going back out to right field.
For several seconds he was observed flexing his thumb and constantly checking for discomfort.
Although he decided to continue momentarily in the game, the team ultimately opted to withdraw him to avoid further injury.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.