3 inexpensive trade options the Braves should consider in Acuña’s absence

Atlanta Braves fans held their breath and hoped for the best when Ronald Acuña Jr. went down on Sunday. Unfortunately, their worst fears were realized when the team announced that he had torn the ACL in his left knee.

Acuña will miss the remainder of this season and most – likely all – of the 2025 season as well. Initially, the club is looking for internal options to fill the roster spot, promoting JP Martinez to fourth outfielder. However, it is likely that a better option is needed.

In 2021, Atlanta Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos pulled a rabbit – or three rabbits – out of his hat following Ronald Acuña Jr’s season-ending injury. If he decides to make a trade this year, these players could be targets.

Adam Duvall is 35 years old and injuries have limited him to 86 games in 2022 and 92 games in 2023. Despite his reputation as a southpaw, over the past three seasons he has hit just .212/.270/.444 /.715 and struck out in 33.5% of his PA.

Jarred Kelenic has been a stud defender since his arrival but still struggles against lefties. It appears the Braves are willing to send Marcell Ozuna to play left field and use one of their catchers as a DH. This is not ideal. So who could the Braves go to and how much would it cost?