Acuña and Smith-Shawver Rehab Progress | Atlanta Braves News

Ronald Acuña Jr. is inching closer to returning to the Atlanta Braves, going 1-for-3 with a walk in his latest rehab game for Triple-A Gwinnett — and the team’s cautious optimism is growing. With two hamstring strains this season, the 2023 NL MVP might even debut as a designated hitter. Meanwhile, young pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver dazzled in his fourth rehab outing, tossing 4.1 scoreless innings with five strikeouts and a 99 mph fastball — though he’ll likely need one more start before joining the rotation. Manager Walt Weiss hopes Acuña returns before the home stand ends Thursday. Also rehabbing: Ha-Seong Kim, who had a double and a walk in his two games back from finger surgery. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/857aa64ac1f9bfb5