Ronald Acuña Jr. Works Out, Eyes Mid‑July Return to Braves Lineup
**Ronald Acuña Jr.** took part in a pre‑game workout at Truist Park on Tuesday, July 2, 2026, as Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss signaled a tentative push for the star outfielder to return by mid‑July following a left hamstring strain.
Acuña, 28, arrived at the stadium for a light session before the Braves faced the St. Louis Cardinals. The workout was part of a gradual rehab plan after he missed two stints on the injured list since early May. He limped briefly after attempting to beat out a fourth‑inning grounder, was replaced by Eli White, and finished 0‑for‑2 with a strikeout in the leadoff spot.
The hamstring issue landed in the same spot as a Grade 1 strain that sidelined Acuña for three weeks earlier this season. Braves medical staff, led by team physician Dr. Mark Bowman, are treating it as a low‑grade strain, but caution remains high because soft‑tissue injuries can recur. A swift return could boost Atlanta’s offense, where Acuña already logged 15 steals, but rushing him risks a setback that could linger into the postseason.
Weiss told reporters the club will not rush Acuña back. He described the player as “day‑to‑day” and said an MRI would confirm the exact severity. If the scan shows only a minor tear, Acuña could see minor‑league action in the Rookie‑level Florida Coast League next week, giving the Braves a clear picture before committing him to the major‑league roster.
The next concrete update is expected before the Braves’ Wednesday series in Chicago. If the MRI confirms a Grade 1 strain, Acuña may miss at least ten more days, pushing his return past the All‑Star break. Fantasy managers should hold off on counting him in lineups until a definitive status is released. Meanwhile, Eli White is slated for regular starts in right field, and the Braves’ comfortable NL East lead allows them to afford a cautious approach.
Atlanta sits atop the NL East with a solid lead, giving the front office leeway to prioritize Acuña’s health over short‑term gains. The team’s depth in the outfield, combined with strong pitching, means they can weather his absence without jeopardizing playoff positioning. Still, his speed on the bases and power in the middle of the order remain vital for a deep postseason run.
Weiss hinted at a “mid‑to‑late July” window, aligning with the team’s plan to evaluate Acuña in low‑stakes minor‑league games before a full‑time roster spot. If all goes well, fans could witness his return in the Braves’ series against the Miami Marlins on July 21, though that date remains speculative pending medical clearance.