Atlanta Braves Third Baseman Sidelined Due to Fracture
The Atlanta Braves face a significant setback as their third baseman, Austin Riley, is expected to be out for the next six to eight weeks due to a right hand fracture. The injury, confirmed by an MRI, was sustained after Riley was hit by a pitch from Los Angeles Angels reliever Jack Kochanowicz.
This blow comes at a critical time for both Riley and the Braves. With the regular season winding down and playoff spots up for grabs, Riley’s absence could impact the Braves' postseason aspirations. If Riley recovers on the quicker end of the medical estimate, he might return in time for the Braves' three-game home series against the New York Mets, starting on September 24. However, should his recovery extend to the full eight weeks, Riley would miss the remainder of the regular season and possibly the initial rounds of the postseason.
Riley's exit marks the latest in a series of injuries plaguing the Braves this season. The team has already lost several key players, including ace pitcher Spencer Strider, whose season concluded after just two starts due to a UCL tear. All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies has been absent for nearly a month with a wrist fracture, and Ronald Acuña Jr. has been out since early June with a season-ending ACL tear. Even Max Fried, who returned from forearm neuritis, has struggled to regain his previous form.
Riley's Performance This Season
Before his injury, Riley was putting together a solid season. Over 110 games, Riley batted .256/.322/.461, hitting 19 home runs and 26 doubles. His performance had steadily improved, particularly since May 2024, during which he posted an impressive .275/.339/.531 slash line. Riley’s numbers entering June were .228/.295/.353, highlighting his significant mid-season turnaround. His absence will undoubtedly be felt in the Braves' lineup.
With Riley sidelined, Luke Williams is expected to take over as the primary third baseman. Williams, who has shown promise, will need to step up to fill the void left by Riley and maintain the team’s competitiveness in the highly-contested NL East.
Braves' Playoff Pursuit
Currently, the Braves hold a narrow two-game lead over the Mets for the third and final NL wild-card spot. The San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals trail the Braves by four and five games, respectively. Despite the slew of injuries, the Braves are striving to close a seven-game gap on the first-place Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East. The Braves have clinched the division title for the past six seasons, a streak they are fiercely looking to continue.
As the Braves navigate this challenging period, they remain optimistic about their playoff chances. The team’s resilience and depth will be tested as they aim to secure a postseason berth without several of their key players. Riley’s potential comeback in late September could provide a much-needed boost, but the Braves must maintain their momentum in his absence.
Injuries have undeniably reshaped the Braves' season narrative, yet the team’s determination and adaptability continue to drive their efforts. The next few weeks will be critical as they aim to solidify their position in the standings and prepare for the postseason.