Keith Hernandez says 'you gotta hit' Ronald Acuna referring to Braves, Marlins brawl

NorthJersey

Show Caption Hide Caption Brandon Nimmo on his pursuit of a cycle Brandon Nimmo on his pursuit of a cycle in the 16-5 win over the Orioles

The biggest story in baseball on Wednesday was Jose Urena beaning Ronald Acuna Jr. to open the game and incite a brawl between the Braves and Marlins, and Keith Hernandez had an interesting take on the matter.

Discussing the situation during the broadcast of the Mets' blowout win over the Orioles, Hernandez appeared to support the choice to hit Acuna because of how well he has played of late.

"He's killing the ball the last three games, he's hit three home runs," Hernandez said. "You gotta hit him."

Braves fans please advise. pic.twitter.com/LDHsVPfjDN — Kyle Sandy (@KyleSandy355) August 16, 2018

Hernandez went on to clarify that Acuna should either be hit or knocked down to send a message, but that no pitches should be thrown at "anybody's head or neck."

Acuna was seemingly hit because he has three straight leadoff home runs and became the youngest player in MLB history to homer in five straight games. Acuna then left Wednesday's game with an injury, while Urena and Braves manager Brian Snitker were ejected.

Tensions flare at SunTrust Park as Ronald Acuña Jr. is hit on the elbow with a fastball from Marlins starter Jose Urena.



The benches clear as both teams meet at the mound. #Braves | #ChopOn pic.twitter.com/s1fGrMjezh — FOX Sports: Braves (@FOXSportsBraves) August 15, 2018

MORE: Brandon Nimmo notches career night, Todd Frazier plates four runs as Mets blowout Orioles

MORE: Mets GM interviews expected to include Blue Jays execs Tony LaCava and Ben Cherington

MORE: Mets preparing Jay Bruce for 1B during rehab assignment

MORE: Robert Gsellman and Seth Lugo still working often despite limitations

MORE: Mets broadcasters Hernandez and Darling recreate classic 'GoodFellas' scene