Ronald Acuna: MLB changes are ‘awkward and uncomfortable,’ but necessary

“It’s a little uncomfortable I think because it’s out of the norm and our routine,” Acuna said via team interpreter Franco Garcia. “So for all of us, I think it’s a little uncomfortable. But it’s just one of the tests of life, something that none of us were ready for or prepared for, so we just have to adjust accordingly. My mentality toward it is health and family come first, always.”

Braves players already have seen how the coronavirus pandemic can affect their team. The Braves had four players test positive for COVID-19 last week: first baseman Freddie Freeman, left-hander Will Smith, right-hander Touki Toussaint and utilityman Pete Kozma.

Additionally, two Braves veterans decided against playing. Starter Felix Hernandez opted out Saturday, with his agent citing concerns around the coronavirus. Outfielder Nick Markakis, one of the team’s respected leaders, decided against playing and will instead spend time with his wife and three children.

“With Freddie and Nick, it’s a shame obviously,” Acuna said when asked about the two veterans’ situations. “But the primary thing for them is to make sure they take care of their health and their family. So it’s completely understandable (that Markakis won’t play) and I think we all feel that way. It’s going to be hard not having Nick around and not knowing what Freddie’s status is going to be, when he’ll be around. It’s a shame but we have to keep moving on.”

When explaining his decision to sit out, Markakis, 34, noted the drastic changes to the game. He felt he couldn’t fully prepare for games as he always has because of the protocols. He disliked the notion of playing games without fans, admitting “that’s not baseball to me.”

“It just feels uncomfortable because that’s what you’re used to,” Acuna said. “You’re used to greeting a teammate when you see them. You’re used to celebrating with someone, whether they hit a home run or make a great play. For me, it’s just been an uncomfortable experience adjusting to the new forms and how we’re supposed to do this.

“But obviously we have to take care of ourselves and our family. There’s just a transition period to it. And not playing in front of fans, that’s a big thing for me too. I’m always going to enjoy the game and have immense love for it, but to say the least, it’s uncomfortable.”

Acuna said he feels strong physically. Since spring training stopped in mid-March, he’s stayed in shape and taken care of his body. Manager Brian Snitker even mentioned Acuna looks bigger during his Monday conference.

That’s welcome news for the Braves, who amid all the uncertainties will try for their third consecutive National League East title. Their past two postseason appearances are largely thanks to the spark Acuna provides, though his enthusiasm will have to be contained this time around.

“I was definitely excited to get back to the field for obvious reasons,” he said. “We were gone for so many months. I was excited to see my teammates. But it’s just awkward and uncomfortable to change the routine and what you’re used to; being responsible, being socially distance from your teammates and friends. But I was excited to come back for sure.”

Since debuting in late April 2018, Acuna has cemented himself as one of baseball’s best talents. After winning Rookie of the Year, he finished just shy of collecting 40 homers and 40 steals in his second season. Acuna, who earned his first All-Star appearance last season, hit .280 with 41 homers, 101 RBIs, 127 runs scored and 37 steals in 2019. He finished fifth in MVP voting.

The Braves open the 60-game season at the Mets on July 24. Their home opener will come five days later against the Rays.