"In 2022, I felt desperate" - Ronald Acuna Jr. learns from past mistakes, takes different approach to comeback plans amid latest injury setback

When Ronald Acuna Jr. is on the field, he is arguably the most electric player in the sport thanks to his combination of speed and power. The only thing that has held the Atlanta Braves star back has been his struggles to remain healthy.

The reigning National League MVP has had to overcome several devastating injuries throughout his career. This year, Ronald Acuna Jr. only appeared in 49 games as he suffered a season-ending ACL tear on his left knee. This is already the second knee injury in his short career, as his season also ended abruptly three years ago.

In 2021, Ronald Acuna Jr.'s season was cut short after only 82 games, suffering a complete ACL tear in his right knee, keeping him out of the Braves' World Series run. After winning the title, the Braves outfielder was determined to get back out there and help defend their crown, something that he believes was the wrong move in hindsight.

“In 2022, I felt desperate to play," Acuna Jr. said in a dugout interview with Bally Sports. "This go-around, I am going to try and make sure I am at 100% before going out there.”

The dynamic outfielder explained that he has learned from some of the mistakes he made during his first ACL tear. Through a Braves interpreter, he explained that he is going to be more patient with his recovery process and wait until he is cleared before going back to the field.

It's clear that the Atlanta Braves organization is better when Acuna Jr. is in the lineup, so the team will likely be cautious with his return. The 2023 NL MVP will potentially miss 239 regular season games in the last four seasons because of his ACL tears.

Ronald Acuna Jr. shared his frustration about being unable to help the Braves' struggling lineup

Although the Atlanta Braves have some of the top hitters in the league, the team has not lived up to expectations this season. While injuries to the likes of Acuna Jr. and Ozzie Albies certainly played a factor, the rest of the lineup has been underwhelming throughout the season.

"When you see the guys struggling like that, obviously you get that sense of frustration and want to be able to help out," the outfielder said during the interview.

Entering Sunday's action, the Atlanta Braves sit only 1.0 games ahead of the New York Mets for the final National League Wild Card spot. With Acuna Jr. out for the season, vets like Matt Olson and Austin Riley will be tasked to carry the club into the postseason.