Atlanta Braves shortstop Ronald Acuna will bat first in the team’s game against the Colorado Rockies on Thursday, just a day removed from taking a pitch to the elbow against the Miami Marlins. Marlins pitcher Jose Urena struck Acuna with a fastball in the first inning on Wednesday. That pitch was clearly deemed intentional by the umpires, who ejected Urena. Acuna didn’t finish the game, though x-rays after the contest came back negative. Acuna, 20, is hitting .288 with 19 homers, 43 RBI, 49 runs and eight stolen bases this season. He’s a crucial figure for the Braves, who are chasing the NL East title and a place in the postseason.
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