Ronald Acuña Jr.’s future with the Atlanta Braves is the subject of increasing discussion, with some analysts suggesting the team should act now to secure his services long-term. The reigning 2025 MLB Player of the Year is coming off a stellar season and has already reported to spring training, where he’s immediately impressed with his level of play.
A Decade-Long Commitment?
Former MLB General Manager Jim Bowden is urging the Braves to offer Acuña a massive 10-year, $500 million contract extension immediately. Bowden believes waiting could significantly increase the cost, potentially to $800 million or $75 million annually with opt-out clauses.
“Do it now, don’t wait for him to have a Most Valuable Player performance. I’m not exaggerating. He’s going to get $800 million after. Or if not, it’s going to be $75 million a year for five years with opt-outs in the last three,” Bowden stated on MLB Network Radio.
He further argued, “If you aim for him, sign him now coming off 21 home runs with 9 steals. Please, don’t wait. Break that current contract you have with him. Sign him now. Trust me, you’re going to save a lot of money.”
Bowden acknowledged that Acuña’s two surgeries are a concern, but pointed to recent contracts in the league – including four-year, $240 million deal for Kyle Tucker with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s $500 million contract last year – to support his argument.
“He’s a better player than (Kyle) Tucker. Ok. Acuña is a much better player, and I love (Vladimir) Guerrero,” he concluded.
