2 Atlanta Braves Players Who Need to Step Up in 2026

The Atlanta Braves are in first place in the National League East division. They are 12-7 overall heading into their upcoming series against the Philadelphia Phillies. However, things could be even better if two of their best players -- Ronald Acuna Jr. and Austin Riley -- were performing at a higher level.

The Braves need more from Acuna and Riley moving forward.

Ronald Acuna Jr.

Acuna, 28, is one of the best players in the sport. He is still trying to get things going in the 2026 season, though.

Through 19 games, the Braves star is hitting just .247/.341/.384 across 73 at-bats. He has one run and seven total extra-base hits.

In previous years, Acuna has performed well while on the field. Injuries have often limited him, though. For example, Acuna slashed .290/.417/.518 in 2025, but he played in only 95 games.

Acuna has appeared in all 19 of the Braves games this season, but he has yet to find his All-Star form. He will surely get back on track soon.

Austin Riley

Riley's situation is a bit more concerning. The 29-year-old has struggled in recent years, and things do not seem to be changing in 2026.

He has also been limited over the past two years. Unlike Acuna, though, his performance while on the field has been lackluster. Riley has played in 19 games as well this season, and he is slashing just .229/.316/.329. He has also hit just one home run and has four total extra-base hits.

A few seasons ago, Riley was one of the better third baseman in baseball. In 2025, he recorded an OPS of just .737, however. At only 29 years old, Riley likely is not declining. He is still capable of bouncing back and playing at a high level.

The Braves are hopeful he can turn things around sooner rather than later.

Braves' Overall Outlook in 2026

The Braves have out-performed expectations in 2026 up to this point. In spring training, a number of starting pitchers suffered injuries. Yet, Atlanta has found a way to find success early in the new campaign.