Texas Rangers host World Series champion Atlanta Braves

Atlanta — The Texas Rangers will open a three-game series on Friday, April 29 against the reigning World Series champion Atlanta Braves at Globe Life Field in Arlington.

The Braves reinstated outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. from the disabled list Thursday, more than a week before the team’s deadline for his return from knee surgery.

Acuña is expected to hit leadoff in the three-game weekend series against the Rangers.

Acuña could split his playing time as designated hitter and outfielder.

The Braves, defending World Series champions, have struggled early in the season and are still looking to win their first series of the year.

The Braves will look to Acuña to give their lineup a boost after showing in his rehab stint with Triple-A Gwinnett that he has recovered from the surgery that ended his 2021 season.

The Braves’ decision to activate Acuña could have been prompted by losing Eddie Rosario for eight to 12 weeks.

Rosario, the MVP of last season’s NL Championship Series, underwent a laser procedure Wednesday to correct blurred vision and swelling in his right eye.