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North Port Today
By the People, for the People
Braves' Acuña Jr. Faces Veteran Lefty in Live BP
Acuña Jr. takes on Chris Sale as Atlanta Braves ramp up spring training
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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Atlanta Braves star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. has been participating in live batting practice sessions at spring training, including facing off against veteran pitcher Chris Sale. While Acuña struck out twice against the lefty, the bigger picture remains encouraging as he works his way back to full health ahead of the 2026 season.
Why it matters
Acuña's health and performance are crucial for the Braves as they look to build on their recent success and make another run at the World Series. Seeing him face tough competition like Sale in live BP is a positive sign that he is on track for the upcoming season.
The details
Gabe Burns of the AJC has been providing an inside look at Braves camp, and reported that Acuña stepped in against Chris Sale, with the veteran lefty getting the better of him, striking him out twice. This was just another day of work in February, as Acuña continues to ramp up his preparation for the 2026 season.
- Acuña and other Braves players have been participating in live BP sessions in North Port, Florida.
The players
Ronald Acuña Jr.
A star outfielder for the Atlanta Braves who is working his way back to full health ahead of the 2026 season.
Chris Sale
A veteran left-handed pitcher who faced off against Acuña in live batting practice.
What they’re saying
“Acuña recently told Mark Bowman of MLB.com that he's fully healthy heading into 2026 and feels as good as he has in a long time.”
— Ronald Acuña Jr. (MLB.com)
What’s next
Acuña will continue to ramp up his preparation for the 2026 season, with the goal of being fully healthy and ready to lead the Braves to another successful campaign.
The takeaway
While Acuña may have struggled against the veteran lefty in live BP, the bigger picture remains encouraging as he works his way back to full health. Seeing him on the field and facing tough competition is a positive sign for the Braves as they look to build on their recent success.
