The biggest looming question for Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. is the next contract he could command in a couple of years. There is growing belief that it could be a massive deal — potentially exceeding $300 million.
“The Braves must also account for future extensions for other core players, making payroll allocation a delicate exercise. Retaining Acuña long term is a priority, but accomplishing it will not be easy. Bellinger pulled in $162 million despite his up-and-down career thus far. Signing Acuña will almost certainly require more, both in total dollars and years,” HTHB’s Chase Owens wrote. “With each big-money contract we see like Bellinger or Kyle Tucker or Bo Bichette, it feels increasingly likely that Ronald would have no trouble finding a deal worth at least $300 million if not significantly more.”
ESPN insider Buster Olney made it clear in a recent appearance that the Braves are unlikely to sign Acuña unless it’s on a team-friendly deal.
“The Braves feel like the best way to operate is to get the player at a potentially team-friendly contract, and if you don’t, you move onto plan B,” Olney said.
The Braves still have a couple of seasons remaining with Acuña under contract, but their focus remains on the present. Manager Walt Weiss announced Sunday that Acuña will serve as Atlanta’s leadoff hitter.
“When that lineup turns over, man, I want it to be a gauntlet. It starts with Ronald (Acuña Jr.) and it’s tough to catch your breath. That’s the plan,” Weiss said.
When Acuña is healthy, he is arguably the best leadoff hitter in the game, and he makes the Braves’ lineup difficult to navigate. Atlanta has already been tested by pitching injuries, which means the offense will need to carry a significant load.
If the lineup can stay healthy as well, there will be few weak spots. While injuries to the pitching staff are detrimental, a fully intact lineup gives the Braves a strong chance to outscore opponents on a nightly basis.
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