Braves Announce Ronald Acuna Jr. Decision Before Nationals Game

The Atlanta Braves, at 36-17, own the best record in the National League and have been one of baseball's most dominant teams this season, even while managing injuries to key contributors throughout the year. Their latest concern involves Ronald Acuna Jr., who was removed from a May 21 game against the Miami Marlins as a precaution with left thumb pain.

Through 39 games this season, the 28-year-old is slashing .247/.356/.363 with two home runs, 11 RBI, seven stolen bases and 22 runs scored.

On Sunday, the Braves announced their lineup ahead of the series finale against the Washington Nationals, revealing that Ronald Acuna Jr. will not be in the outfield but instead will start as the designated hitter.

Sunday starters #BravesCountrypic.twitter.com/SopQK0EiIJ

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 24, 2026

Rather than starting in right field, Acuna is penciled in as the DH, giving his thumb some relief from the demands of the outfield. Eli White will start in right field in his place.

The role carries added context. Acuna had only just returned from a separate injured list stint before the thumb issue arose, having been placed on the 10-day IL on May 3 with a grade 1 left hamstring strain he suffered while running out a ground ball against the Colorado Rockies. He was not activated until May 18, starting at DH before returning to the outfield later in the Marlins series.

The five-time All-Star and 2023 NL MVP has been limited by injuries in recent seasons, appearing in fewer than 100 games per year over four seasons prior to 2026.

Atlanta will send Martin Perez to the mound on Sunday as the Braves look to close out the series against the Nationals.

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This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 2:53 PM.