Ronald Acuna Jr.'s brother Luisangel reveals he was 'playing video games' when Mets promotion call came from Carlos Mendoza

Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuna Jr.'s younger brother, Luisangel Acuna, was called up to the Major Leagues by the New York Mets on September 14. So far, the 22-year-old was playing for Syracuse, the triple-A affiliate of the Mets. Outfielder DJ Stewart has been optioned for triple-A to make room for Luisangel.

Hitting at a .258 batting average, Luisangel Acuna has seven home runs and 50 RBIs so far in the 2024 season at triple-A level. The Mets would be looking at his development with keen interest, hoping he can one day dominate the big leagues like his older brother.

Speaking to SNY shortly after being called up by the Mets, Luisangel talked about his reaction when he heard the news of his promotion.

"So I was playing video games with my friends and the manager called me and said 'Are you OK?' I said, 'Yeah'. He was like, 'Alright, tomorrow you're going to the big leagues', and I said, 'I can't believe it'," Acuna said via a translator.

"After that, I went to my room, and just started calling everybody. It's just an unforgettable emotion," Acuna added.

Acuna Jr starts in place of Francisco Lindor at Citizens Bank Park

On his MLB debut, in the game between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies, at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday, Luisangel will be replacing leadoff hitter Francisco Lindor. The latter is reportedly facing some back tightness.

The squad announcement for Saturday's game was made shortly before the Mets took on the Phillies, via the former team's official account on X.

In his time playing at the triple-A level, Luisangel played as a shortstop (along with second base and center field), which is where Lindor plays defensively.

Though Lindor's injury is not one that the Mets expect to keep him out for an extended period of time, the addition of Luisangel Acuna to the team gives Carlos Mendoza's outfit another capable hand in the infield.

Coming off a resounding 11-3 win over the hosts in the first game, the New Yorkers will be looking to clinch the series with another victory in Saturday's game. At the same time, Luisangel Acuna Jr. will be hoping to get his big league career off to the perfect start at one of its most iconic venues.