Ronald Acuna Jr. is on the cusp of achieving a remarkable feat as the Atlanta Braves prepare to host the Philadelphia Phillies for the decisive game of their three-game series on Wednesday.

 

After the Braves (97-54) snapped a four-game losing streak with a convincing 9-3 victory over the Phillies, the series now hangs in the balance. Atlanta holds an 8-4 lead in their season series against Philadelphia (82-69).

On Tuesday, Acuna showcased his power with two home runs, bringing his season total to 39. Just one more homer will place him among an exclusive group of players who have achieved both 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a single season. The elite members of this group include Alfonso Soriano (2006), Alex Rodriguez (1998), Barry Bonds (1996), and Jose Canseco (1988). Furthermore, Acuna’s 67 stolen bases could make him the first player ever to accomplish both 60 steals and 40 home runs in a season.

 

In addition to his impressive home run count, Acuna reached 100 RBIs in Tuesday’s game, marking the second time he has achieved this milestone. Ozzie Albies is closing in on this milestone with just two RBIs needed to join Matt Olson (130) and Acuna with 100 runs driven in, while Austin Riley remains 10 RBIs away from the mark.

 

Braves manager Brian Snitker praised Acuna’s outstanding season, saying, “That’s a testament to the bottom of the lineup. They roll the lineup over, and (Acuna) has got runners to drive in. He’s just putting together a special, special season.”

 

The final regular-season matchup between these National League East rivals will see Aaron Nola (12-9, 4.62 ERA) taking the mound for the Phillies, while Bryce Elder (12-4, 3.50 ERA) will be the starting pitcher for the Braves.