The Atlanta Braves are once again facing injury setbacks as third baseman Austin Riley was placed on the 10-day injured list Monday for the second time in the past month due to a strained lower abdominal muscle. This move comes after Riley experienced pain after an impressive first-inning dive to tag Elly De La Cruz during the Braves’ 4-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds in Sunday’s Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Austin Riley reinjures abdomen
Riley felt discomfort in his lower abdomen after the play and was replaced by pinch-hitter Luke Williams in the third inning of the game. Braves general manager Brian Snitker discussed Riley’s exit after the game.
“It was one of those things where he wasn’t sure about batting,” Snitker said. “I told him, if [the aggravated muscle] goes, you’re looking at the end of the year on the IL. Hopefully, it’s not bad.”
This marks the second time Riley has been sidelined this season with abdominal issues. He was previously on the IL from July 12-25 with a similar lower abdominal strain.
Braves’ injury woes continue.
Riley’s injury is another blow to the Braves’ decimated roster. The team is without starting pitchers Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, Spencer Schwellenbach, Grant Holmes, and AJ Smith-Shawver, who are all on the 60-day IL. Star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr is on the 10-day IL with a lower right calf strain. Acuña could return by mid-August, but the Braves will be careful with his return to the field, especially considering his history of knee and leg injuries.
Riley’s absence leaves a notable gap in the Braves’ lineup. The 28-year-old is hitting .260 with 16 home runs and has been a steady contributor for Atlanta this season. His injury history is also concerning. Just a year ago, Riley suffered a season-ending injury after being hit by a pitch on the hand.
Atlanta looks to Triple-A for answers.
The Braves recalled infielders Nacho Alvarez Jr. and Jonathan Ornelas from Triple-A Gwinnett before the opener of the home series against Milwaukee. Outfielder Jarred Kelenic was optioned to Gwinnett following Sunday’s game.
Alvarez was called up when Riley first went down earlier in the season. He played in eight games for Atlanta, posting a .200 batting average with a .483 OPS. Although these numbers aren’t outstanding, Alvarez showed promise in his previous stint. He could benefit from more regular at-bats at the Major League level.
The Braves remain hopeful that Riley’s current issue is a minor setback and that he’ll be back in action soon. Atlanta will rely on its depth.
Main Photo Credits: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
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