The reigning National League MVP launched a home run for the second consecutive game on Friday night, helping the Atlanta Braves widen their lead and secure a 6–3 win at Petco Park. Acuña’s blast—a towering shot to left field—came in the fifth inning and marked his eighth of the season.
After a somewhat slow start to 2025 by his own standards, Acuña appears to be finding his rhythm. Friday’s homer followed a key solo shot in Thursday’s series opener, signaling a return to the dynamic, game-changing form that has made him one of the most feared hitters in baseball.
“Ronnie’s seeing the ball well and driving it with authority,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said postgame. “When he’s locked in like this, he can carry us.”
The Braves entered the series looking to regain momentum after a rough road trip, and Acuña’s offensive spark has come at the perfect time. His fifth-inning home run gave Atlanta a 4–2 cushion they wouldn’t relinquish, with the bullpen locking things down in the final frames.
Acuña finished the night 2-for-4 with two RBIs, while teammates Matt Olson and Austin Riley also chipped in with run-scoring hits. On the mound, rookie hurler A.J. Smith-Shawver turned in a solid five-inning outing, allowing just two earned runs and striking out six.
As for the Padres, they continue to search for consistency. Juan Soto drove in a pair of runs, but the offense couldn’t keep up with Atlanta’s balanced attack.
With the win, the Braves improve to 32–19 and extend their lead in the NL East. They’ll look to continue their West Coast success in Saturday’s game, with veteran ace Max Fried set to take the mound.
If Ronald Acuña Jr. keeps swinging like this, Atlanta’s confidence—and their lead in the standings—might keep growing too.
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