re: *** 2023 Braves - World Series or Bust ***

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Atlanta Braves OF Ronald Acuna Jr. still rehabbing knee, won't play in any spring training games

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. won't see game action in spring training, even as a designated hitter, as it becomes increasingly likely he will miss at least the first month of the regular season.

"No. You won't see him in a spring game," manager Brian Snitker said after Atlanta's 4-0 win over Minnesota on Tuesday.

Acuna, recovering from a torn ACL in his right knee suffered midway through last season, expressed hope at the start of spring training that he would be ready for the defending World Series champion Braves' opener April 7. There had been speculation the universal DH would provide a path for Acuna's return to the lineup earlier than if he had to play in the outfield.

Instead, the Braves continue to take a cautious approach to the rehabilitation process for Acuna, the team's unquestioned biggest star after Freddie Freeman's free-agent signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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