Ronald Acuña Jr. didn’t return until the end of May last season, but his electric talent was felt from literally the first pitch he saw. Although, the Braves 2025 season didn’t go as planned, it was refreshing to see Acuña Jr. back on the diamond making impact plays.

Acuña Jr. was one of the Braves best players upon his return, and that was with the fact that his defense and baserunning were still well behind his bat. Ronald was electric on the basepaths when he led MLB in stolen bases (73) in 2023 and took home National League MVP. However, after two major knee surgeries, it was clear Ronald was still aggressive on the bases last season while still having the ability to knock the ball out of the park.

Although it is MLB”s offseason, Acuña Jr. is doing his part to keep fans excited about the upcoming season. That excitement is due to the impressive early returns from Acuña Jr.’s playing style in the Venezuelan Winter League. Not only is he stealing bases, but the loud contact fans have grown to love remains and at that could have him primed for another massive season in 2026.

Ronald Acuña Jr.’s all-around game in winter ball should have Braves fans hoping for another MVP-caliber season

The last time Acuña Jr. played winter ball in Venezuela, he proceeded to go out and win NL MVP unanimously during the ensuing Major League Baseball season. Acuña Jr. has played in just two winter ball games thus far, but the early results are a return to MVP level Ronald Acuña Jr.

Acuña Jr. won NL Comeback Player of the Year in 2025, but we all know there is another level the Braves franchise player can reach. The added value for Ronald lies within the stolen base ceiling he can reclaim in 2026. Great news, through two winter ball games, Acuña Jr. has FOUR stolen bases in addition to alright showing his trademark power.

Aggressive baserunning fromRAJ is an insanely fun watch especially with his ability to send balls 450+ feet at any moment. With the addition of basestealing savant Antoan Richardson as first base coach there may be no limit to the heights Acuña Jr. can reach. After so many obstacles and hardships for a guy who clearly loves the game of baseball, it is a joy to see Acuña Jr. stealing bags and clocking homers and having fun on the diamond once again. We have a long way to go, but if Acuña Jr.’s early winter ball stats are any indication to 2026, Braves fans could be in for a really exciting season.