Report: Braves' top pick AJ Gracia has season-ending surgery

Field Level Media|published: Sun 2nd August, 13:17 2026

Virginia outfielder AJ Gracia (29) swings for the ball during an NCAA Baseball Regional game between Southern Miss and Virginia at Pete Taylor Park in Hattiesburg, Miss., on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

AJ Gracia, the Atlanta Braves' top pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, underwent labrum surgery and will miss seven to 10 months, The Athletic reported Sunday.

An outfielder, he was the No. 9 overall pick of the draft out of college at Virginia. The 21-year signed with the Braves for just under $4 million, well below the slot value of nearly $6.7 million.

Gracia hit .354 with 14 home runs and 48 RBIs in his only season with the Cavaliers. He is known for his exceptional eye at the plate.

In 176 college games split between Duke (2024-25) and Virginia (2026), he walked 152 times compared to 129 strikeouts.

Per The Athletic, the surgery was performed in Los Angeles by Dr. Neal ElAttrache.

The Braves have not announced the procedure yet.

A left-handed hitter, Gracia has compared his playing style to Cody Bellinger of the New York Yankees.

--Field Level Media