The Atlanta Braves, already dealing with injuries, received more bad news on Monday. Austin Riley, the third baseman, will be out for the remainder of the regular season after breaking his right hand.
Riley was struck by a 97-mph fastball from Los Angeles Angels pitcher Jack Kochanowicz in the first inning of Atlanta’s 3-1 victory on Sunday. An MRI found the fracture, and he will be out for six to eight weeks, missing the remainder of the regular season and most certainly the playoffs if the Braves make it.
The AtlaThe Braves were two games ahead of the New York Mets for the last wild-card berth heading into a three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.
The Braves have won their division for six years in a row, but their streak is in jeopardy due to injuries, which have dropped them seven games behind the Phillies. They are now focused on securing a wild-card place, with a two-game lead over the Mets.
In addition to Riley, the Braves have already lost NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and ace pitcher Spencer Strider to season-ending injuries. Key players including second baseman Ozzie Albies, center fielder Michael Harris II, and catcher Sean Murphy have all missed considerable time.
This is Riley’s second major injury of the season. He had already missed two weeks in May due to a strained muscle around his ribcage. With a catastrophic injury, the Braves have a significant hole in their lineup. Since the trade deadline has gone, their possibilities for replacing him are limited.
Riley blasted 37 home runs last season and has 153 for Atlanta since making his debut in 2019. After Riley’s injury, Luke Williams, who is hitting.118 this season, took over at third base but may not be a long-term option.
The Braves might move Whit Merrifield, who is presently filling in at second base, to third base and give top prospect Nacho Alvarez another opportunity.
