The Atlanta Braves, already grappling with a string of injuries, have been dealt another significant blow. Third baseman Austin Riley is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season after suffering a fractured right hand.
Riley sustained the injury during Atlanta’s 3-1 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday when he was struck by a 97 mph fastball from pitcher Jack Kochanowicz in the first inning. An MRI confirmed the fracture, and Riley is projected to be out for six to eight weeks, sidelining him for the rest of the regular season and potentially part of the playoffs, should the Braves secure a spot.
The Braves, who were two games ahead of the New York Mets for the final wild-card position, now face an uphill battle as they prepare for a crucial three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.
Atlanta, winners of their division for six consecutive years, now finds that streak in jeopardy, trailing the Phillies by seven games. With the recent spate of injuries, the team’s focus has shifted to securing a wild-card berth, where they currently hold a slim two-game lead over the Mets.
Riley’s injury adds to an already long list of sidelined key players, including NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and ace pitcher Spencer Strider, both out for the season. Other vital players such as second baseman Ozzie Albies, center fielder Michael Harris II, and catcher Sean Murphy have also missed substantial time this year.
This marks Riley’s second major injury of the season, following a two-week absence in May due to a strained muscle near his rib cage. His absence leaves a significant void in the Braves’ lineup. With the trade deadline now passed, the team’s options for finding a replacement are limited.
Riley, who hit 37 home runs last season and has 153 career home runs since his debut in 2019, will be sorely missed. In his absence, Luke Williams, who has been struggling with a .118 batting average this season, filled in at third base, though he may not be a viable long-term solution.
The Braves might consider shifting Whit Merrifield, who is currently covering second base, to third base, or giving top prospect Nacho Alvarez another opportunity to step up.
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