Ronald Acuña Jr. Injury Update: Walt Weiss Makes Announcement Before Cubs Game
The Atlanta Braves are having a sensational start to the 2026 MLB season, and they enter Wednesday's matchup against the Chicago Cubs with an MLB-leading 29-13 record. The Braves are off to one of the best starts in franchise history as they seek a fourth straight victory, but they will have to do it without superstar outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr.
Acuña Jr. has been sidelined since May 3 with a grade 1 left hamstring strain that he suffered while running out a grounder, though Atlanta has continued rolling despite the absence of one of the sport's biggest stars. The well-rounded Braves lead the Major Leagues in both team batting average and earned run average, despite dealing with injuries.
While the 28-year-old five-time All-Star and former National League MVP had not been playing up to his usual elite level prior to the hamstring injury, the Braves still remain hopeful that Acuña Jr. can regain his superstar form later in the season.
"Walt Weiss said Ronald Acuña Jr. will not be activated this homestand but is progressing well," Braves reporter Jesús Cano shared on X.
Walt Weiss said Ronald Acuña Jr. will not be activated this homestand but is progressing well
— Jesús Cano (@Jesus_Cano88) May 13, 2026
While this update may disappoint Braves fans hoping for an immediate return for Acuña Jr., Atlanta's dominant start to the season gives the organization the luxury of remaining patient during his recovery process. Holding one of baseball's most complete rosters, the Braves were able to climb to the top of the National League without Acuña Jr. performing at an MVP level prior to the injury.
Still, Atlanta is at its most dangerous when Acuña is healthy and at his peak. If the Braves are able to get the star outfielder back to form, Atlanta could become an even greater threat to dethrone the back-to-back World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
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This story was originally published May 13, 2026 at 2:22 PM.