Torn ACL recovery time: When will Ronald Acuña return to Braves?

With Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña done for the season with a torn ACL, how long will it take to recover?

The Atlanta Braves‘ chances of making a trip to the World Series later this year took a massive hit over the weekend when star outfielder Ronald Acuña tore his ACL. During Saturday’s game against the Miami Marlins, Acuña attempted to catch a fly ball in right field, but landed awkwardly on his right leg forcing him to be carted off the field after being unable to walk to the dugout.

With Acuña’s 2021 campaign officially over, just when can Braves fan see the star outfielder return?

When will Ronald Acuna return to Braves?

At the time Acuña was ruled out for the remainder of this season, ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan revealed that the outfielder is expected to miss between 9-to-10 months once he undergoes surgery to repair the complete ACL tear. Given that timeline, Acuña is in danger of missing the start of the 2022 season.

Through 82 games this season, Acuña slashed .283/.394/.596 while recording 24 home runs, 52 RBI, 72 runs scored and 84 hits.

Losing Acuña stings for the Braves, who were looking to build off their 2020 campaign where they fell one win short of reaching the World Series. Atlanta dealt with a variety of injuries this season, but they were still in the hunt for the NL East division crown entering the All-Star break. With their star out for the remainder of the campaign, it will be interesting to see if the Braves make a move at the trade deadline to contend for the postseason.

Braves fans should keep their eyes peeled throughout spring training next year to get a better feel of when Acuña might return.