The Atlanta Braves have suffered another significant setback as third baseman Austin Riley is set to miss the remainder of the regular season after breaking his right hand. Riley was injured when he was hit by a 97 mph fastball from Los Angeles Angels starter Jack Kochanowicz in the first inning of Sunday’s game.
An MRI confirmed the fracture, and Riley is expected to be out for six to eight weeks, potentially missing the playoffs as well if the Braves qualify.
This injury adds to a growing list of challenges for the Braves, who are already struggling with a series of injuries to key players. They entered a crucial three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies with just a two-game lead over the New York Mets for the final wild-card spot.
The Braves have won six consecutive division titles, but their streak is in jeopardy due to their injury-plagued roster, leaving the wild card as their most viable path to the postseason.
In addition to Riley, the Braves have already lost NL MVP Ronald Acuna Jr. and ace pitcher Spencer Strider to season-ending injuries. Other important players, such as Ozzie Albies, Michael Harris II, and Sean Murphy, have also missed significant time. Riley’s injury is his second of the season, following a two-week absence in May due to a strained muscle near his rib cage.
His absence creates a significant gap in the Braves lineup, and with the trade deadline past, their options to replace him are limited.
The Braves are now faced with the difficult task of finding a replacement for Riley. Luke Williams, who stepped in at third base after Riley’s injury, has struggled this season and is not seen as a full-time solution.
Another potential option is Whit Merrifield, who could be moved from second base to third, allowing the team to bring in top prospect Nacho Alvarez. However, Alvarez has also struggled in the majors, which led to his return to Triple-A Gwinnett.
Despite these challenges, the Braves received some positive news with the return of right-hander Reynaldo López, who was recalled from his rehab assignment to start the series opener against the Phillies.
López, who was an All-Star this season, had been on the injured list since late July with forearm inflammation. To make room for López, the Braves optioned reliever Jimmy Herget to Triple-A.
