For the first time this season, the dynamic Venezuelan sensation, Ronald Acuña Jr., didn’t start as the Atlanta Braves’ right fielder.

His presence had been a constant for 143 games, an unquestioned given. He had been on course to become just the third player in MLB history to start every game of a season in right field, firmly positioning himself as the front-runner for the NL MVP award.

However, with the Braves preparing for a doubleheader in Philadelphia following their postseason berth celebration, manager Brian Snitker decided to give his star player a well-deserved break. Despite the rest, Acuña still served as the designated hitter and led off, maintaining his quest to become only the sixth player ever to lead off every game in a season for a team.

Acuña’s incredible on-field skills and sheer production are deserving of immense praise, potentially earning him accolades come November. Yet, his unwavering availability elevates him to another level, especially considering his recovery from a torn ACL just two years ago. In 2022, he wasn’t at his peak due to that surgically repaired knee; he resembled a muted symphony and a muffled fireworks display.

For the Braves, an organization that values stability and consistency, Acuña’s reliability is the norm. In Atlanta, “posting,” as it’s known in baseball, isn’t a cause for celebration; it’s an expectation earned through dedication and hard work. Players assert that it’s not a mandate imposed by management but rather a grassroots-driven source of pride. This culture took root during the Freddie Freeman era, was nurtured by player leadership, and, most importantly, has proven to be an effective strategy in winning numerous games.

Kevin Pillar, a veteran outfielder in his first season with the Braves, explained, “I think it’s the collective effort of the entire group that’s here—our training staff, our nutritionists, the strength and conditioning coaches. There’s a culture that’s been created here. Guys put the work in behind the scenes to be ready.”

From 2018 to 2022, only 64 players in Major League Baseball participated in at least 158 games in a single season. Astonishingly, eleven of them (17%) were Braves. It’s no surprise that Atlanta might have another three players—Acuña, Matt Olson, and Austin Riley—finish with over 158 games played this year.