Ronald Acuna is headed to the MLB All-Star game, where he’ll become the youngest Brave to start in the midsummer classic.
Acuna spoke with the media (through the team interpreter, Franco Garcia) before the Braves’ game against the Mets in New York on Friday night. It was his first time speaking publicly since he was elected a starter Thursday night.
On his first All-Star selection:
“I want to thank the fans for all the support they gave me throughout the voting process, my family, all the people back in Venezuela who did the voting as well. What can I say? I’m extremely excited and hopefully there will be many more to come. But for this one, I’m just going to go out there, give it my best effort and try to enjoy myself.”
On comparing his Rookie of the Year award (2018) to his first All-Star berth:
“They’re definitely both up there. There’s something to be said for Rookie of the Year because you only win it once. You’ll have multiple opportunities to make an All-Star game depending on the way you play. But as of right now, they’re both up there. And with the All-Star game, there’s nothing like the first time. It’s really exciting.”
On the possibility of having more teammates (in addition to Freddie Freeman and manager Brian Snitker) join him:
“It’s great. It’s hard to put into words. It’s something incomparable to be able to go out there and share that experience with your teammates. It’s awesome.”
Who in your family is most excited?
“They’re all the same level of excitement. They’re all giving me well-wishes and blessings. I’m nothing but grateful for the support they’ve given me since I began this entire thing.”
What did Ozzie Albies tell you about his experience in the All-Star game last year?
“The way he makes it sound, he was so excited. He said he wants to go every single year. So his enthusiasm and excitement got me kind of emotional and excited too. So now I’m sharing that enthusiasm and trying to go every year. Hopefully we’ll be able to do that here on out.”
On his growing profile with baseball fans:
“It’s a cool thing to think about. Being able to be recognized and known by various fans throughout the country. The only message I have for them is thank you for taking the time out of your busy days to vote for me and show me your support. I really appreciate it and hopefully I’ll continue to have your support going forward.”
