PICTURE: Mets rookie Luisangel Acuna bonds with MVP brother Ronald Acuna Jr. ahead of crucial Braves series
When the MLB season started, all eyes were on the older of the two Acuna brothers, the Atlanta Braves' Ronald Acuna Jr., who was coming off an NL MVP award in 2023.
But as the season concludes, all eyes are fixed on the younger brother. Luisangel Acuna has lit up MLB after being promoted from the minors by the New York Mets.
When Francisco Lindor got injured, the Mets were forced to promote Luisangel to the big leagues. Some might have thought it was a bit premature as the 22-year-old is hitting just .258 in the minors this season.
But they were left with no other option as some key names in the infield were missing due to long-term injuries. The Venezuelan has been a revelation, hitting .379 with 6 RBI and 3 home runs in nine games.
With the young Mets shortstop in the big leagues, he is ready to face his brother's team, albeit without Ronald, who is out for the season due to injury. The series that kicks off the final week of the regular season for both teams will be played out in Atlanta. New York is two games ahead of Atlanta for the NL's third Wild Card spot.
Before the series, the Acuna brothers met up. They were sitting in casual clothes and posing for the cameras, before their rivalry kicks in.
Luisangel Acuna on brother Ronald's important advice
In an exclusive interview with MLB.com on Monday, Luisangel Acuna was asked about his brother's influence on his career. He mentioned that the Braves All-Star along with their family will be in attendance for the showcase series.
"Oh, yeah, it’s exciting. It’s a really special moment for me, him and the family. He told me he is going to be there no matter what. He wants to see me play," Luisangel said.
The rookie also added that his brother has taught him the virtue of staying disciplined. As a former Rookie of the Year winner himself back in 2018, Ronald knows the importance of settling in after making the transition from Triple-A to MLB.
"He told me to make sure that I always have discipline, which is the most important thing once you are in the big leagues. That was the biggest advice he ever gave me," he added.
The series is decisive for both teams as it will solidify, if not confirm, who among the two make it to the postseason.