Braves being cautious with Ronald Acuña despite Brian Snitker’s comments

After Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker hinted that Ronald Acuña could return this weekend, it turns out that might’ve been premature.

Acuña has an ankle injury, the latest in a series of injuries that have haunted his MVP-caliber start to the 2021 season. This is the third consecutive day that Acuña is out of the lineup, but it speaks to the team’s greater goals, which include a hopeful playoff run and World Series appearance.

Ehire Adrianza will fill in for Acuña for the third consecutive day, as the Braves opted not to call up the likes of Drew Waters to fill in for their star and/or Cristian Pache, who is on the injured list.

Brian Snitker impressed with Braves backup outfield options

“I’m been very impressed with him ever since spring training,” Snitker said of Adrianza. “Not knowing who he was coming in, then the spring he had. The versatility. He’s a great kid. He’s fit right in here. He has a very professional approach, consistent in his work and stays ready.”

On Saturday, Snitker gave a more measured approach when discussing Acuña’s injury, giving himself a little room for error. This is after he stated on Friday that Acuña could potentially play over the weekend.

“He’s walking around OK, but it’s still bothering him a bit,” Snitker said. “We’ll see how he is tomorrow when he comes in.”

Braves fans shouldn’t be too discouraged that Acuña’s status isn’t improving at this juncture. Were this a postseason scenario, odds are Acuña would be starting in right field. But that’s obviously not the case.

Atlanta has won two straight games in spit of Acuña’s absence, so there’s no need to rush him back right now. The Braves are in third place in the crowded NL East, just two games behind the New York Mets, who have lost two straight games.