If Ronald Acuña Jr. hadn’t already endeared himself enough to Braves Country, and indeed the baseball world at large, he recently offered a glimpse into his vulnerable side in a poignant piece for the Player’s Tribune.
For those who haven’t had the chance to read it yet, it’s highly recommended. While lengthy, it’s well worth the 15-20 minutes it takes to absorb the entire article. Acuña candidly shares insights into his upbringing in Venezuela, his deep-rooted affection for his homeland and family, his introverted nature, the emotional struggles he faced following his ACL injury, and much more.
It’s a masterpiece that provides fans with a deeper understanding of who he is and what drives him beyond the baseball diamond. One aspect that stands out is Acuña’s dream moment, one he pledges to bring to fruition in Atlanta.
In his vision, the scene is set at Truist Park for the final game of the World Series. The stadium pulsates with energy as fans erupt in jubilation. Acuña visualizes the pivotal moment: the final at-bat, the crack of the bat, the ball soaring through the air, and then, the euphoria of securing the final out. In his dream, the stadium erupts into a massive celebration, with fans flooding the field to revel in the victory.
Throughout the article, Acuña delves into his innermost thoughts during the 2021 season after his ACL injury. He admits that he couldn’t bring himself to watch the team play until the playoffs, as it only deepened his depression. Even witnessing his teammates’ success in winning the World Series didn’t fully satisfy him.
Acuña yearns to play a pivotal role in the team’s narrative. Despite his exceptional performance in the first half of the 2021 season, he feels his job isn’t complete, and he remains driven to contribute until the task is finished.
Acuña’s vulnerability in the piece resonates deeply, and it’s sure to fire up an entire city, and then some, for Opening Day. For him, this isn’t just about money; it’s about striving for greatness and sharing the joy of success with the fans.
At this juncture, it’s hard to imagine anyone rooting against Ronald Acuña Jr. He’s already a standout figure in baseball, and his willingness to share such personal insights only adds to his allure. When the Braves eventually hoist that trophy once again, Acuña’s words will serve as a poignant reminder of his unwavering determination to fulfill his destiny.
