There was no way to avoid the 150km fastball flying over the shoulder. Ronald Acunha Jr. (26) of the Atlanta Braves, who currently ranks first in stolen bases in both major leagues, faced a dizzying moment.
Acuña Junior started as the first batter in right field in the second game of the double header against the 2023 Major League Baseball New York Mets held at Citi Field in Flushing, New York, USA on the 2nd (hereinafter Korean time).
However, he only played his first at-bat in the top of the first inning and could not play any more. Mets starting pitcher Tyler Megill’s pitch hit his left shoulder. It was also a 93 mph (150 km) four-seam fastball, so the pain was added. Acuna Jr. was eventually replaced by Kevin Pilar to finish the day’s match.
On this day, the official website of Major League Baseball (MLB.com) announced the news of Acuna Jr.’s injury and said, “Acuña Jr. caused panic when he left the field after three pitches. However, Acuna Jr. is expected to return soon.” The Atlanta club said, “Acuña Jr. suffered a bruise on his left shoulder.”
The Atlanta club sent Acuña Jr. to a nearby hospital for a more definitive examination. However, Atlanta coach Brian Snicker expects Acuna Jr. to join the squad immediately. ‘MLB.com’ said, “Director Sneaker expected Acuña Jr. to accompany him on the road to Miami.” 스포츠토토
Acuña Junior is playing a big role as a Hotajun with a batting average of .363, 5 homers, 15 RBIs and 13 steals in 29 games this year. In particular, he is ranked first in the league with 13 stolen bases. The player chasing Acuña Junior is Pittsburgh Pirates’ Korean utility player Bae Ji-hwan. Bae Ji-hwan ranks second in the league with 11 stolen bases.
Atlanta announced that it was a bruise, but depending on the results of the additional examination, it is expected to affect the competition for the king of stolen bases. If Acuña Jr.’s injury is serious, he will be absent for a while, and there will be no chance to try stealing naturally.
Fortunately, if a bruise is found in the additional examination, it seems that it will be possible to compete normally in the future. Atlanta will play a visiting game against the Miami Marlins from the 3rd. Will Acuna Junior be able to return safely? Bae Ji-hwan can’t help but watch with interest.