Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. returned to the starting lineup on Wednesday night against the Oakland Athletics after missing Tuesday’s game due to lower back tightness sustained during pregame workouts in West Sacramento, California. Acuna, batting .331 with nine home runs and 18 RBIs in 40 games this season, had been sidelined for nearly a year with an ACL injury.
Acuna’s Status Leading into All-Star Events
The 27-year-old Outfielder is scheduled to start for the National League in next Tuesday’s All-Star Game in Atlanta. He is also expected to participate in Monday’s Home Run Derby, marking his fifth All-Star selection since winning the 2023 National League MVP award.
Jacob Wilson’s Hand Injury Limits Playing Time
Oakland Athletics rookie Jacob Wilson did not appear in Wednesday’s lineup after suffering a left-hand contusion when hit by a pitch from Braves pitcher Didier Fuentes during his first at-bat on Tuesday. Although X-rays came back negative, Athletics manager Mark Kotsay described Wilson’s status as day-to-day ahead of Wednesday’s game.</p>
Wilson’s Impact and Replacement in Lineup
Wilson, a 23-year-old shortstop batting .335 with nine homers and 42 RBIs in 85 games, was replaced by Max Muncy at shortstop for the Athletics on Wednesday. Muncy, also an infielder for Oakland, started in Wilson’s stead during the game.</p>
Braves Adjust Pitching Staff After Fuentes’ Struggles
Braves right-hander Didier Fuentes, who gave up three first-inning home runs and eight runs in just over an inning on Tuesday, was optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett before Wednesday’s game. Fuentes posted an 0-3 record with a 13.85 ERA this season. In his place, Atlanta recalled right-hander Nathan Wiles from Triple-A. Wiles is 4-7 with a 3.33 ERA in 15 starts for Gwinnett and previously made one major league appearance on April 22, allowing three runs in one inning during a 10-4 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.
Additional Notes on Athletics Players’ Recent Performances
Oakland’s Andujar, batting .296 with three home runs and 20 RBIs in 46 games, last played for the Athletics on June 1. Meanwhile, Thomas has recorded one hit in 11 at-bats (.091) over five games this season.
Implications for Upcoming Games and Rosters
With Acuna Jr. returning and Wilson listed as day-to-day, the Braves and Athletics will continue to adjust lineups amidst injuries. Wilson’s absence notably affects the Athletics’ shortstop position heading into the All-Star break, where both he and Acuna hold key roles. The Braves’ decision to send Fuentes down and recall Wiles signals a shift in the pitching rotation as they seek more stability in their bullpen.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jacob Wilson Jack Wilson’s son?
A. The A’s picked Wilson, whose father is ex-MLB All-Star shortstop Jack Wilson, as the 6th overall choice in the 2023 MLB Draft. He quickly advanced in his career. By late 2024, Wilson made it to the major leagues and became a standout player within a year.