What more is there to say about the 2024 season and injuries for the Atlanta Braves. It is unfortunate to report that the team has sustained another significant injury. Austin Riley, will be sidelined for an estimated six to eight weeks due to a right hand fracture. The incident occurred during the first inning of Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels when Riley was struck in the right hand. Although he initially remained in the game, he was replaced by Luke Williams in the bottom of the first inning. Despite this setback, the Braves managed to secure a 3-1 victory on Sunday.
Braves May Have Hit Breaking Point
Austin Riley today underwent an MRI that revealed a right hand fracture. He is expected to miss approximately six to eight weeks.
Additionally, the club today returned RHP Reynaldo López from his rehabilitation assignment and reinstated him from the injured list, and optioned…
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 19, 2024
Originally, the X-rays and CT scan performed on Riley yielded inconclusive results. Upon further evaluation in Atlanta on Monday, a subsequent MRI revealed a fracture in the right hand. With approximately six weeks remaining in the season, this development significantly impacts Austin Riley’s 2024 regular season. Any potential return to play this year would be contingent on reaching the postseason.
Austin Riley has been removed from today’s game after getting hit by this pitch. pic.twitter.com/uRoiOKSjuw
— Bally Sports South (@BallySportsSO) August 18, 2024
Riley has unfortunately sustained a second injury this season, having previously missed 10 games due to oblique tightness. He joins a growing list of injuries for the Braves. Including AJ Minter, who recently underwent hip surgery that will likely end his season. Other injuries sustained this season include, Ronald Acuna Jr., Ozzie Albies, Spencer Strider, Michael Harris II, Sean Murphy, Max Fried and Reynaldo Lopez. All missing significant time or have had their seasons ended by injury.
Riley’s Impact Is going To Be Missed
The Atlanta Braves are facing a shortage of options within their system and will need to rely on all available resources to address the absence of Riley. Potential replacements include Luke Williams, who recently made an appearance on Sunday, and Nacho Alvarez. The 21-year-old, may be given a second chance despite previous underperformance. The decision of who will ultimately be chosen to support Atlanta lies with Brian Snitker and Alex Anthopolous.
Riley has consistently demonstrated exceptional offensive performance for the Atlanta team, second only to Marcell Ozuna. With an impressive .256 batting average, 19 home runs, and 56 runs batted in, Riley has also showcased remarkable defensive skills worthy of a Gold Glove award. Since June 14th, Riley has emerged as one of the top six hitters in the National League in terms of OPS, wRC+, and wOBA. These significant strides indicate a promising trajectory for Riley’s 2024 campaign.
Main Photo Credits: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
