The Atlanta Braves, already dealing with a string of injuries, received more bad news on Monday. Third baseman Austin Riley is set to miss the remainder of the regular season after breaking his right hand.
Riley sustained the injury after being 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 confirmed the fracture, sidelining Riley for six to eight weeks, which means he’ll miss the rest of the regular season and possibly part of the playoffs if the Braves make it.
The Braves were holding a two-game lead over the New York Mets for the final wild-card spot ahead of their upcoming three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.
Despite winning their division for six consecutive years, the Braves’ streak is now in jeopardy, as injuries have put them seven games behind the Phillies. Their focus has shifted to securing a wild-card spot, currently maintaining a two-game edge over the Mets. Alongside Riley, the Braves have also 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 been sidelined for significant stretches.
This marks Riley’s second major injury this season, after previously missing two weeks in May due to a strained muscle near his rib cage. With Riley out again, the Braves face a critical void in their lineup. Given that the trade deadline has passed, their options for replacing him are limited.
Riley, who hit 37 home runs last season and has 153 home runs for Atlanta since his 2019 debut, leaves a significant hole in the Braves’ offense. Following Riley’s injury, Luke Williams, who is batting .118 this season, stepped in at third base but may not be a viable long-term solution.
The Braves may consider moving Whit Merrifield, currently playing second base, to third base and giving top prospect Nacho Alvarez another opportunity.