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CONTRACT EXTENDED!!!: Ronald Acuña Jr. Inks Massive Deal to Stay With Braves Through 2035—Under One Key Condition
In a blockbuster announcement that has captivated the baseball world, Ronald Acuña Jr. has officially signed a contract extension with the Atlanta Braves that will keep him in a Braves uniform through the 2035 MLB season. The deal, reportedly worth over $275 million with performance-based escalators, marks one of the longest and most unique contracts in modern baseball—but there’s a major twist: a critical clause that could void the deal if key conditions aren’t met.
Acuña, who debuted with the Braves in 2018, has grown into one of the most electrifying and marketable superstars in the game. With his elite speed, power, and flair, the 26-year-old has already earned MVP votes, multiple All-Star selections, and led the Braves to postseason success. The extension is a strategic move by Atlanta’s front office to secure its franchise cornerstone for the long haul, while also protecting the organization against potential injury risks or performance dips.
What makes this deal different from typical mega-contracts is a set of conditional requirements that must be fulfilled for the full value of the extension to become guaranteed. According to sources familiar with the terms:
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Acuña must average at least 120 games played per season from 2026 through 2029.
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The Braves must qualify for the postseason in at least two of those four years, with Acuña playing in at least 75% of the games during those playoff seasons.
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A mutual opt-out clause is built into the 2031 season, allowing both the player and team to reassess based on performance and team success.
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A $5 million loyalty bonus will be awarded if Acuña remains with the team past 2032 without requesting a trade.
These conditions are seen as a mutual safeguard. For Acuña, it guarantees long-term financial security while motivating performance consistency. For the Braves, it ensures the deal remains viable and worth the investment, particularly as Acuña continues to recover from previous injuries and maintain elite athletic performance.
At a press conference announcing the deal, Acuña expressed his excitement:
“Atlanta is my home. The fans, the city, my teammates—I’ve grown here. I want to bring more championships to this team. I’m committed to the future and honored by this trust.”
Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos added:
“Ronald is a generational talent. This deal shows our belief in him, and his belief in us. We’ve structured it in a way that helps both sides thrive for years to come.”
Fans have erupted with joy across social media, celebrating the long-term commitment of a player many view as the soul of the Braves. With a young core still intact and Acuña now locked in for another decade, the Braves are making it clear: they’re building a dynasty around their superstar.
While the unique clauses may raise eyebrows, one thing is certain—Ronald Acuña Jr. isn’t just staying in Atlanta. He’s betting on himself. And the Braves are betting on greatness.
