Braves News: Ronald Acuña Jr. Takes Live BP Swings, Eyes Strong WBC Run, and Camp Updates
“Ronald Acuña Jr. is stepping into live batting practice sessions at Braves camp, facing off against aces like Chris Sale and prospects like Hurston Waldrep, signaling his full health recovery. With Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic schedule kicking off soon, Acuña’s participation adds excitement ahead of the 2026 MLB season, while the team navigates pitching depth challenges and injury updates.”
Braves Camp Buzz: Acuña’s Live BP Dominance and WBC Preparations
Spring training in North Port, Florida, is heating up for the Atlanta Braves, and the spotlight is squarely on superstar outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. as he ramps up his preparations for what the team hopes will be a bounce-back 2026 campaign.
Acuña, coming off a 2025 season limited by lingering effects from his second ACL tear and a subsequent calf issue, has looked sharp in early workouts. Reports from camp highlight his participation in live batting practice (BP), where he’s taken swings against live pitching rather than just tee or soft toss work. In one notable session, the five-time All-Star faced off against veteran left-hander Chris Sale in a fun yet competitive matchup. Sale got the upper hand, striking out Acuña twice with sharp breaking stuff, but the exchanges included light-hearted banter between the two, showcasing the positive vibe in camp. Acuña held his own in other at-bats, launching balls deep and drawing smiles after one near-miss off the scoreboard, declaring “I’m healthy now” with confidence.
Another live BP moment saw Acuña go up against young right-hander Hurston Waldrep, with players even challenging calls for added realism. These sessions mark a key milestone in Acuña’s recovery timeline. After playing in the Venezuelan Winter League this offseason—where he swiped bases and showed renewed aggression on the bases—he’s expressed feeling better than he has in years. Manager Walt Weiss has indicated openness to returning Acuña to the leadoff spot, where his elite on-base skills and speed could thrive again. Last season’s 11 steals in winter ball and continued progress suggest the dynamic 40/70 threat from 2023 could resurface.
Beyond individual progress, Acuña’s involvement in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC) is a major storyline. He officially committed to represent Team Venezuela, marking his second WBC appearance after debuting in 2023, where he helped the team reach the quarterfinals before falling to Team USA. Venezuela is placed in Pool D, with their schedule featuring high-stakes matchups starting March 6 against the Netherlands at loanDepot park in Miami (12:00 p.m. ET). Other games in the pool will follow, building toward the tournament’s conclusion on March 17.
This participation comes with Braves’ blessing, as Acuña used winter ball to fine-tune his game without risking overexertion. The WBC offers valuable at-bats against top international talent, serving as an extended tune-up before MLB Opening Day on March 27, when Atlanta hosts the Kansas City Royals. Acuña’s presence on Team Venezuela adds intrigue, especially with potential cross-Braves matchups—such as facing Ozzie Albies if the Netherlands advances or other scenarios involving international rosters.
The broader Braves camp narrative includes health positives across the board. Third baseman Austin Riley has echoed Acuña’s sentiments, stating both have put in the work to stay healthy after injury-plagued stretches and are primed for big years. The team has welcomed back key pieces, with reports of full readiness from several players.
On the pitching side, challenges persist. The rotation outlook features Chris Sale, Spencer Strider (still building back), Reynaldo López, Grant Holmes, and Hurston Waldrep as potential starters. However, prospect Spencer Schwellenbach requires arthroscopic elbow surgery, landing him on the 60-day IL to begin the year, prompting discussions about depth additions. Other notes include catcher Sean Murphy’s hip labrum recovery timeline and shortstop Ha-Seong Kim’s expected absence for months due to injury, with utility infielder backups in place.
Overall, the energy in North Port is optimistic. Acuña’s live BP performances, combined with his WBC commitment, position him as the centerpiece of Atlanta’s quest to reclaim contender status after a disappointing 2025. Fans can expect more updates as full-squad workouts continue and Grapefruit League games begin February 21 against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Disclaimer: This is an informational news report based on current developments. It is not investment, betting, or medical advice.