Braves Joey Wentz Shines in Scoreless Start Amid Acuña Injury

The Atlanta Braves received encouraging news regarding star right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr., who was diagnosed with a Grade 1 lower-right calf strain rather than the initially feared Achilles injury, typically requiring two to three weeks of rest. Acuña, returning from a yearlong ACL rehab, is being carefully managed given the Braves' struggles this season and their low postseason prospects. Meanwhile, Braves pitcher Joey Wentz delivered an impressive performance in his third start, allowing just one hit and no earned runs over 6.2 innings with seven strikeouts against the Kansas City Royals. Despite Wentz’s strong outing, the Braves lost 1-0 in extra innings, extending their losing streak and highlighting ongoing team challenges. Wentz, who has played for three teams this season mostly in relief, has shown promise in his new role in Atlanta’s rotation and is set to start next against the Brewers. The Braves continue to manage injuries cautiously, with multiple key pitchers still on the injured list and none close to rehabbing yet.