The Atlanta Braves, already struggling with injuries, have been dealt another significant blow as third baseman Austin Riley is sidelined for six to eight weeks due to a broken right hand.
Riley sustained the injury on Sunday after being hit by a 97 mph fastball from Los Angeles Angels’ starter Jack Kochanowicz during the first inning of the Braves’ 3-1 victory. An MRI on Monday confirmed the fracture, effectively ending Riley’s regular season and likely keeping him out of the playoffs if Atlanta secures a spot.
This injury adds to the Braves’ mounting challenges, with the team currently holding a two-game lead over the New York Mets for the final wild-card spot.
Atlanta, which has won six consecutive division titles, is seven games behind the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies. The Braves are also missing key players, including NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and pitcher Spencer Strider, both out for the season, along with several others who have missed significant time.
Riley, who has 19 home runs and 56 RBIs this season, leaves a substantial gap in Atlanta’s lineup. With the trade deadline passed, the Braves have limited options to replace him. Luke Williams filled in at third base after Riley’s injury but is not seen as a long-term solution.
The Braves may consider moving Whit Merrifield to third or giving another chance to top prospect Nacho Alvarez, though Alvarez struggled in his earlier stint this season.
In some positive news, right-hander Reynaldo López has been recalled from his rehab assignment and will start the series opener against the Phillies. However, with the playoffs approaching and their roster severely depleted, the Braves face an uphill battle to secure their seventh straight postseason appearance.
