20 Moments That Show Why Ronald Acuña Jr. Is a Star

Ronald Acuña Jr. plays baseball with a mix of raw talent and joy that’s hard to ignore. He makes big moments feel even bigger, whether he's smashing a home run or stealing a base with ease. Every time he takes the field, there's a chance fans will witness something special.

Tricia Quitales
June 13, 2025
5 min read

20 Moments That Show Why Ronald Acuña Jr. Is a Star — © Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Ronald Acuña Jr. has quickly risen to become one of Major League Baseball’s brightest stars. His speed, power, and personality makes him stand out in every game he plays. From record-breaking feats to jaw-dropping plays, he has a habit of turning heads. These 20 moments reveal why Acuña Jr. is more than just a talented athlete — he’s a true superstar.

1. First Career Home Run

David Kohl-Imagn Images

Acuña Jr. blasted his first big league homer just two days after his MLB debut. It was a towering shot that showed his power early on. That swing gave fans a glimpse of what was coming.

2. Leadoff Homer in the Playoffs (NLDS)

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

He opened Game 1 with a leadoff homer, sending a message right away. His energy lifted the Braves and fired up the crowd. It set the tone for the entire series.

3. Grand Slam vs. Dodgers (NLDS)

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

At just 20 years old, he crushed a grand slam in the playoffs. He became the youngest player ever to do it in the postseason. The moment was loud and unforgettable.

4. 40/70 Season

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Acuña Jr. became the first player in MLB history to hit 40 home runs and steal 70 bases in one season. He redefined what a complete player looks like. That record instantly placed him among the greats.

5. 30/30 Club at 21 Years Old

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

He joined the elite 30/30 club before turning 22. His combination of speed and strength stood out like few others. It was clear he was on a historic path.

6. Back-to-Back Leadoff Homers

In two straight games, he opened with a home run on the first pitch. Pitchers tried to surprise him, but he flipped the script. His timing and confidence were off the charts.

7. Outfield Assist from Deep Right Field

Acuña Jr. threw out a runner at third with a laser from right field. The ball barely touched the ground on its way there. It reminded everyone that his arm is just as deadly as his bat.

8. Multi-Homer Game vs. Nationals

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

He hit two home runs in one game, both deep shots to left field. The Nationals had no answer for him that night. When he’s locked in, pitchers struggle to find a solution.

9. Walk-Off Single vs. Mets

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

With the game on the line, Acuña Jr. delivered a clean single to win it. The stadium exploded as his teammates rushed the field. His clutch gene came through in the biggest moment.

10. All-Star Game Leadoff Hit

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

In front of the world, he started the All-Star Game with a double. The moment didn’t overwhelm him — it inspired him. He brought energy right from the start.

11. Home Run in Mexico City Game

During a special game played in Mexico, Acuña Jr. hit a towering homer. The crowd roared, and he tipped his helmet to show respect. It was a cool moment on an international stage.

12. 460-Foot Bomb vs. Red Sox

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

He crushed a ball into the upper deck with one of the longest home runs of the season. Fans and players alike were in awe. That kind of power is rare to watch.

13. Multi-Stolen Base Game

Acuña Jr. stole three bases in a single game, including second and third in the same inning. His instincts were flawless. When he decides to run, few can stop him.

14. First Career Grand Slam

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

He crushed his first career grand slam during his rookie year. The moment was filled with energy and promise. It helped define his breakout season.

15. Game-Tying Home Run in 9th

With two outs in the bottom of the ninth, he launched a clutch homer to tie the game. Fans leaped from their seats as he rounded the bases. He gave Atlanta life when it mattered most.

16. Diving Catch in Right Field

Acuña Jr. sprinted and fully extended to save extra bases with a diving grab. It showed off his defensive range and effort. Plays like that make him valuable beyond the stat sheet.

17. Homer on Jackie Robinson Day

Wearing number 42 in honor of Robinson, he blasted a home run. The moment carried emotion and meaning. He honored the legacy with his performance.

18. Inside-the-Park Home Run

When the ball bounced awkwardly in the outfield, Acuña Jr. never slowed down. He rounded all the bases for an inside-the-park homer. His hustle turned a normal hit into something amazing.

19. Game-Winning Catch

With runners on and two outs in the ninth, he made a leaping catch at the wall. It ended the game and sealed the win. His timing and leap were picture perfect.

20. MVP Chant at Truist Park

As he walked to the plate, fans filled the stadium with “MVP” chants. He smiled, tipped his helmet, and delivered with a base hit. It was a moment of connection between a star and his city.