As the Atlanta Braves gear up for the 2025 season, they must confront a daunting challenge—starting the year without two of their biggest stars. Reigning NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and ace pitcher Spencer Strider remain sidelined due to significant injuries, leaving fans and analysts wondering how the team will navigate their absence.
The Braves were dealt a crushing blow when Acuña Jr. suffered a torn ACL in his left knee on May 26, 2024, during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. This marks his second ACL tear in just three years, raising concerns about his long-term durability. Despite undergoing surgery and following an intense rehabilitation program, Acuña remains uncertain about his return date.
“I think I’m going to be patient,” Acuña said recently. “We’re focusing on my hitting, fielding, and anything I can do to help the team win.”
While there is optimism about his return in 2025, the Braves won’t rush their superstar back onto the field. Instead, they’ll closely monitor his recovery, ensuring that when he does return, he’s back to his dominant form.
In another devastating injury, the Braves lost Spencer Strider in April 2024 when he underwent an internal brace procedure on his right elbow to repair a damaged UCL. This alternative to Tommy John surgery offers a faster recovery timeline, and Strider has already completed four bullpen sessions. However, the Braves have confirmed he will not be available for Opening Day.
The organization is prioritizing caution, as Strider’s powerful arm is a cornerstone of Atlanta’s pitching rotation. While his progress is promising, the team will not take any unnecessary risks.
Without Acuña’s bat in the lineup and Strider’s dominance on the mound, the Braves must rely on key depth players and offseason acquisitions to fill the void. Manager Brian Snitker faces the tough task of keeping the team competitive while awaiting their return.
The Braves kick off their spring training schedule on February 22 against the Minnesota Twins, with their regular season opener set for March 27. The hope is that Acuña and Strider will be back in action as soon as possible—but until then, Atlanta will have to prove they can stay on top without them.
Can the Braves weather the storm, or will these injuries derail their championship ambitions? Fans will be watching closely.
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