Ronald Acuna Jr.’s return from injury has sparked new energy in the Atlanta Braves, with the 2023 NL MVP hitting nine home runs and maintaining a batting average near .400 since rejoining the lineup. His latest home run, a solo shot during Monday’s game against the New York Mets, helped secure a 3-2 victory for the Braves, but his flashy celebration drew boos from Mets fans and sparked conversation about his approach.

Sean Casey Highlights Aaron Judge as the Benchmark for Celebrations

Sean Casey, former Yankees coach and Cincinnati Reds Hall of Famer, weighed in on the differing celebration styles during an episode of The Mayor’s Office with Sean Casey on Tuesday. He emphasized that, to him, Aaron Judge sets the “standard” for home run celebrations, praising the Yankees captain’s restrained approach despite his prolific scoring this season.

“There’s so many ways to look at this, Chance. I still look at the standard as Aaron Judge. Aaron Judge, for me, is the standard. He’s the best player in the world,” Casey said (From 8:25).

“Like an inside linebacker that wants to make 20 tackles a game or 15 tackles a game isn’t celebrating every tackle, you know what I mean? That’s your job. Your job is to tackle guys and make plays.”

Casey pointed out Judge’s consistent hustle, noting a recent home run where, despite the hit being a definite home run, Judge immediately ran hard around the bases. He linked this mentality to Judge’s upbringing, influenced by his father Wayne, a teacher who instilled a workmanlike attitude in his son.

Understanding Ronald Acuna Jr.’s Celebration Through a Cultural Lens

Casey also offered insight into what might fuel Acuna Jr.’s more expressive celebrations, suggesting a cultural element connected to Latin American baseball traditions. He explained that many Latin American players express their enjoyment and personality through celebrations shaped by their experiences in winter ball leagues, where flair and dancing are common.

“The Latino guys would always talk about in winter ball, dude, this is normal. Normal. Have that little flow, little dance and little fun, show your personality. So, you know, also I think it’s a cultural thing too. Like, I think there’s something to be said that, like why not, man?” Casey said (from 9:50).

The Personal Context Behind Acuna’s Recent Celebration

Adding another layer to the story, Casey mentioned a personal challenge that may be influencing Acuna Jr.’s emotional displays. His younger half-brother, Luisangel Acuna, who was the National League Rookie of the Month in April, has struggled recently, and the Mets optioned him to Triple-A Syracuse on the same day Ronald faced the Mets.

“The Mets just sent down his brother,” Casey said (from 8:05). “I was thinking, is there a little bit, you know, you’re always looking forward to meeting up with your brother. You’re like, ‘Okay, you look at the schedule, I’m coming into New York, can’t wait to get dinner with my brother or breakfast,’ and they sent him down.”

Ronald Acuna Jr.’s home run also carried sentimental value, as it occurred a day before his wife Maria Laborde’s birthday. Laborde regarded the homer as an early birthday gift from her husband, highlighting the personal significance behind Acuna’s performance and celebration.

Implications for the Culture of Celebration in Baseball

The contrasting reactions to Acuna Jr.’s and Judge’s celebrations highlight the evolving norms around expressing emotion in professional baseball. While Judge represents a more reserved and focused approach, valued for its professionalism and hustle, Acuna Jr.’s style reflects cultural expression and personal emotion, resonating with many Latin American players and fans.

This discussion brings attention to how players‘ backgrounds and personal circumstances influence their approach to the game. As baseball grows more diverse, understanding these differences can enrich appreciation of players’ performances and the significance of their celebrations.