Acuña Questions Double Standard After Kelenic's Non-Hustle Incident

Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr., currently recovering from knee surgery, publicly questioned what he perceives as a double standard in manager Brian Snitker’s handling of player discipline. Acuña commented on social media that, had he failed to hustle like Jarred Kelenic did during a recent game against the Minnesota Twins, he would have been removed from the game, referencing a 2019 incident where Snitker benched him for similar behavior. In contrast, Kelenic remained in the game after being thrown out at second base for not running hard out of the batter’s box, despite fan calls for discipline. Snitker appeared dismissive when asked about Kelenic’s play, saying he spoke to Kelenic privately but did not bench him. Acuña’s now-deleted social media post reignited discussion about consistency in applying team rules and accountability. The incident comes as the Braves look to build momentum in the season, having recently strung together consecutive wins.