ATLANTA, GA (SNN-TV) – The Atlanta Braves reinstated outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. from the injury list Thursday, more than a week ahead of the team’s target date for his return from knee surgery.
Acuna is expected to hit leadoff tonight against the Chicago Cubs. He may initially split time between right field and designated hitter.
The Braves’ decision to activate Acuna could have been motivated by losing Eddie Rosario for eight to 12 weeks.
Rosario, the MVP of the NL Championship Series last season, had a laser procedure on Wednesday to correct blurred vision and swelling in his right eye.
The Braves designated outfielder Alex Dickerson for assignment to clear a spot for Acuna on the active roster.