Ronald Acuña Jr. is a man of his word.
Prior to this year’s World Baseball Classic, the Braves outfielder agreed to a friendly wager with fellow superstar and NL East rival Juan Soto.
It was simple: If Acuña and Team Venezuela defeated Soto and Team Dominican Republic when the two sides faced off in pool play, Soto would have to wear Venezuela gear. However, if the Dominicans triumphed, Acuña would have to sport one of their jerseys.
Well, that game took place on March 11 in Miami, and Team Dominican Republic prevailed, 7-5. Soto contributed one of his club’s four homers in the win, though Acuña did get the last Classic laugh, as Venezuela captured the title by beating Team USA in the gold medal game.
On Friday, Acuña paid up on his deal with Soto, so to speak. He showed up to Truist Park ahead of the Braves’ season-opening game versus the Royals wearing a Team Dominican Republic basketball jersey.
But not just any jersey, of course. It was a No. 22 Soto jersey.