Ronald Acuna Jr. remains one of the top players in MLB.
Right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. has already established himself as one of the most electrifying players in modern baseball, and as he prepares for his ninth season with the Atlanta Braves, his place among the game’s elite remains secure.
Signed out of Venezuela as a teenager, Acuna rose quickly through the minor leagues before debuting in 2018. That rookie campaign ended with him winning National League Rookie of the Year after hitting 26 home runs and stealing 16 bases, immediately cementing his role as a cornerstone of Atlanta’s future.
The following year marked his full arrival as a superstar. Batting primarily in the leadoff spot, Acuna delivered one of the most dynamic offensive seasons in Braves history, finishing with 41 home runs and 37 stolen bases.
He became the first player ever to record a 40-30 season from the leadoff position, earning his first Silver Slugger Award and solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting players in baseball. Atlanta rewarded him with a long-term extension that quickly became one of the most team-friendly deals in the sport, ensuring he would be the face of the franchise for years to come.
Injuries have occasionally interrupted his trajectory, most notably two torn ACLs that sidelined him during the Braves’ World Series run in 2021 and again at the end of 2023. Yet Acuna has consistently returned determined, regaining his explosiveness and proving his resilience.
His 2023 campaign was historic, as he became the first player to record 40 home runs and 70 stolen bases in a single season. That performance earned him National League MVP honors and redefined the limits of what a five-tool player could accomplish in the modern era.
This winter, Acuna’s standing was once again recognized on MLB Network’s Top 100 Players Right Now list. After placing 16th last year, he climbed two spots to No. 14 in the 2026 edition.
MLB shared the honor on X, underscoring how his production and star power continue to resonate across the league. The ranking reflects evaluators’ belief that his 2025 campaign, shortened by injury yet still productive, was more of an outlier than a trend.
For Atlanta, Acuna’s recognition underscores his role as both the face of the franchise and one of baseball’s defining players. His blend of power, speed and charisma continues to shape the Braves’ identity, while his passion and flair connect with a new generation of fans.
As he enters another season in his prime, the Braves will once again look to their superstar to set the tone in their pursuit of October success.