The Atlanta Braves have placed third baseman Austin Riley on the 10-day injured list due to a strained lower abdominal muscle, forcing the team to adjust their lineup ahead of the upcoming series against the Milwaukee Brewers. This Austin Riley injured list update comes shortly after Riley suffered the injury during an <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB Speedway Classic game against the Cincinnati Reds.
Details of Riley’s Injury and Team’s Response
Riley sustained the abdominal strain while attempting a diving play, marking the second instance of a similar injury within a month. Manager Brian Snitker had anticipated a few days before making a final call on Riley’s condition, but the injury worsened quickly, prompting this move. Riley’s previous stint on the injured list lasted about two weeks following a right abdominal strain that also occurred during a defensive play just before the All-Star break.
Snitker indicated that the team will monitor Riley’s recovery closely, basing decisions on how he feels during practice and each morning. While the minimum absence is 10 days, the Braves may adopt a cautious approach due to the recurrence, leaving Riley’s return date uncertain.
Season Stats and Performance Overview for Austin Riley
So far this season, Riley has appeared in 101 games, maintaining a batting average of .260 with a .737 OPS, while recording 16 home runs and 54 RBIs. Despite his consistent presence, his performance has been uneven at times, reflecting the impact of injuries. Last season, Riley’s campaign ended prematurely due to a hand injury around this period, raising concerns about his current health setback.
Infield Adjustments and Roster Moves
In response to Riley’s absence, the Braves have called up infielders Nacho Alvarez and Jonathan Ornelas from Triple-A. Alvarez, recalled during Riley’s prior injury, showed improvement during his earlier stint with the Braves, hitting .200 with a .483 OPS in eight games and delivering multiple multi-hit performances. The organization appears optimistic about his increased role this time around.
Ornelas, who was initially expected to participate in the MLB Speedway Classic but was replaced due to weather-related issues, was also sent back to Triple-A along with Alvarez before both returned to the major league roster.
Reconfiguration in the Outfield to Accommodate New Infielders
To create space for Alvarez and Ornelas on the roster, outfielder Jarred Kelenic has been optioned to Triple-A. Kelenic had recently joined the Braves after Ronald Acuña Jr. was placed on the injured list but saw minimal action, participating in just one game during the series against the Kansas City Royals without an official at-bat.
Outlook and Potential Impact on the Braves’ Season
Austin Riley’s injury adds pressure to an already challenging season for the Braves, who must navigate lineup adjustments during a critical stretch of games. His performance on both offense and defense has been a significant factor in the team’s efforts, and his absence creates a void that Alvarez and Ornelas will be tasked with filling. The Braves will monitor Riley’s progress carefully, hoping for a full recovery that can help stabilize the infield and return veteran leadership to the lineup.