Home Football Ronald Acuna Jr. makes MLB history with Grand Slam in Braves’ win

Ronald Acuna Jr. makes MLB history with Grand Slam in Braves’ win

Football — 09/01/2023

In a historic moment for Major League Baseball, Ronald Acuna Jr., the Braves’ All-Star outfielder, became the first player ever to achieve 30 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season. This extraordinary feat was accomplished with a grand slam during an epic Atlanta Braves victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Acuna, who already had 29 homers and 61 steals to his name before the game, delivered a remarkable performance. He went 3 for 4 at the plate, driving in four runs, drawing a walk, and stealing a base, contributing significantly to the Braves’ thrilling 8-7 win in Los Angeles.

“I feel privileged,” Acuna shared with reporters. “I thank God for letting me play the game I love every single day. It’s not just about me. It’s about my teammates and the fanbase. We all share this moment.”

The historic moment came in the second inning of the game. With the bases loaded after a walk by Dodgers starter Lance Lynn, Acuna stepped up to the plate. After a few fouls and some close pitches, he unleashed a powerful 429-foot grand slam into the left-center field, giving the Braves a commanding 5-1 lead.

The Braves continued to showcase their power with Austin Riley hitting a solo homer, and Michael Harris II adding another solo shot in the fifth inning, extending the lead. However, the Dodgers, led by star Mookie Betts, attempted a comeback with a three-run homer in the fifth inning, making it 7-4. Harris responded with an RBI single in the sixth, securing the Braves’ final run.

Despite a late surge by the Dodgers, including another homer by Mookie Betts and Max Muncy’s solo shot in the eighth, they couldn’t complete the comeback, resulting in the Braves holding on to their lead and securing the victory. Betts had an impressive night, going 2 for 4 with four RBIs, three runs scored, and a walk. Meanwhile, Harris contributed with a 2-for-5 performance, two RBIs, and a run scored, and Riley went 2 for 5 with an RBI and a run scored.

This historic game not only solidified Ronald Acuna Jr.’s place in baseball history but also added another thrilling chapter to the rivalry between the Braves and the Dodgers.