Jeff Francoeuer has a spicy take on Ronald Acuña Jr’s past relationship with Freddie Freeman

Perhaps it was the longer layoff because of the newly introduced byes for the top seeds that slowed down the Braves offense. Luck and randomness could also be the culprit, but I’m with Minter here.

The Braves World Series team had a nice mix of leaders, like Dansby Swanson and Freddie Freeman, and fiery personalities like Joc Pederson. With all of those players onto greener pastures, it seems to have had a negative effect on the Braves when it matters most in October, which former Brave Jeff Francoeuer echoed on Foul Territory.

“Well, I think you gotta have some attitude, man. You can’t just be the nice guys,” Francoeuer said.

I couldn’t agree more with those statements, but what Francoeuer said next is where things get really interesting regarding the past relationship between Ronald Acuña Jr. and Freddie Freeman.

“I think you have to play with an edge. You have to have a couple of guys. I do think Austin Riley can take over that leadership a little bit and be that guy. Because that is one thing I’ll say about Freddie (Freeman), Freddie would get on guys. He would ride guys. When he kind of left, you remember that whole Acuña/Freddie thing, let’s be honest, the reason he didn’t love Freddie is because he rode him. He got on him. I think Austin Riley needs to step up in that role, and I think he will. He’s a good one to do it.”

Matt Olson has made most fans forget Freddie Freeman exists after blasting an MLB-leading 54 home runs last season. There’s no question Olson can replicate the production, but somebody has to step up in the clubhouse moving forward. Whether it’s Austin Riley, as Francoeuer suggests, or someone else, the Braves need someone or a group of guys who understand nothing short of domination is acceptable on any given night with this group of talented players.