The Atlanta Braves have been hit with another major injury blow as third baseman Austin Riley will miss the remainder of the regular season due to a broken right hand. The injury occurred during Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Angels when Riley was struck by a 97 mph fastball from pitcher Jack Kochanowicz in the first inning.
An MRI confirmed the fracture, sidelining Riley for six to eight weeks, effectively ruling him out for the rest of the regular season and potentially into the playoffs if the Braves secure a spot. Currently holding a two-game lead for the final wild-card position, the Braves face a crucial three-game series against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.
This injury adds to the Braves' already extensive list of sidelined players, including NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and ace pitcher Spencer Strider, both out for the season. Other key players like Ozzie Albies, Michael Harris II, and Sean Murphy have also missed significant playing time due to injuries.
Riley, who has 19 home runs and 56 RBIs in 110 games this season, previously dealt with a strained muscle in May. With limited options available to fill the void left by Riley's absence, the Braves face a challenging situation as they aim to secure a seventh consecutive postseason appearance.
While Luke Williams temporarily took over at third base after Riley's injury, the Braves may explore moving Whit Merrifield or giving top prospect Nacho Alvarez another opportunity to step in. However, Alvarez's previous performance did not meet expectations, leading to his return to Triple-A Gwinnett.
On a positive note, the Braves announced the return of Reynaldo López, who will start the series opener against the Phillies. López, an All-Star with a 7-4 record and 2.06 ERA, last pitched on July 28 before landing on the injured list due to forearm inflammation. The team made room for López by optioning reliever Jimmy Herget to Triple-A.
Despite the challenges posed by injuries, the Braves remain determined to secure a playoff spot and continue their postseason streak.
Source: AP MLB
