The Atlanta Braves, already struggling with injuries, received more bad news on Monday. Third baseman Austin Riley will be out for at least the rest of the regular season after breaking his right hand.
Riley was hit by a 97 mph fastball from Los Angeles Angels pitcher Jack Kochanowicz in the first inning of Atlanta’s 3-1 win on Sunday. An MRI revealed the fracture, and he will be sidelined for six to eight weeks, missing the rest of the regular season and likely part of the playoffs if the Braves make it.
The Braves were two games ahead of the New York Mets for the final wild-card spot before their upcoming three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.
The Braves have won their division for six straight years, but this streak is at risk as injuries have left them seven games behind the Phillies. They are now focused on securing a wild-card spot, currently holding a two-game lead over the Mets.
Along with Riley, the Braves have already lost NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and ace pitcher Spencer Strider to season-ending injuries. Key players like second baseman Ozzie Albies, center fielder Michael Harris II, and catcher Sean Murphy have also missed significant time.
This is Riley’s second major injury this season. He previously missed two weeks in May with a strained muscle near his rib cage. Now facing a serious injury, the Braves have a significant gap in their lineup. Since the trade deadline has passed, their options to replace him are limited.
Riley hit 37 home runs last season and has 153 home runs for Atlanta since his debut in 2019. After Riley’s injury, Luke Williams, who is hitting .118 this season, filled in at third base but may not be a long-term solution.
The Braves might shift Whit Merrifield, currently filling in at second base, to third base and give top prospect Nacho Alvarez another chance.
