The Atlanta Braves' season has encountered another significant hurdle, with key player Austin Riley being sidelined due to a broken hand. Riley is anticipated to be out for six to eight weeks, a big blow to a team already struggling with numerous injuries to crucial players like Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Ozzie Albies.
Austin Riley’s absence leaves the Braves searching for a reliable third baseman to help maintain their momentum. As the Braves sit precariously in the last NL wild-card spot, every game counts and the team cannot afford a void in such a critical position.
Potential Replacements
Two names have emerged as potential solutions to fill Riley’s shoes: Yuli Gurriel and Gio Urshela. Gio Urshela appears to be a prime candidate as he inches closer to signing a major-league deal with the Braves. Urshela, who was recently released by the Detroit Tigers, has had a challenging season. Over 92 games, Urshela batted .243/.286/.333 with five home runs and 37 RBIs. His offensive production has notably dipped since his productive 2022 season, raising concerns about whether he can be the short-term solution Atlanta needs.
On the other hand, Yuli Gurriel has spent the entire year with Triple-A Gwinnett, where he has performed admirably. Gurriel posted impressive stats, hitting .300/.380/.498 over 72 games, including 12 home runs, 48 RBIs, 38 runs, and 11 steals. Despite these promising numbers, it’s worth noting that Gurriel hasn’t played third base in the majors since 2021 and hasn't started at the position since 2019, which adds a layer of uncertainty regarding his suitability for this pivotal role.
According to a source, "the team plans to give him some reps at third to see if he’s a valid option," suggesting that the Braves are weighing their options carefully before making a final decision.
The Stakes Are High
The stakes couldn't be higher as the Braves have recently returned home after an encouraging west coast trip, winning five of their last seven games. They currently lead the New York Mets by a game and a half for the last NL wild-card spot but trail the division-leading Philadelphia Phillies by seven games. The Phillies are set to be hosted by the Braves for a crucial three-game series starting Tuesday, making the timing of Riley’s injury even more problematic.
The Braves' lineup is undeniably thin, and the team is operating on a razor's edge. Every decision from this point forward carries significant weight in determining their postseason fate. The addition of either Urshela or Gurriel could be a defining moment for the Braves in this tumultuous season.
As Atlanta navigates through this challenging period, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Braves' management addresses these roster challenges. Not only is the team hoping that their choice for Riley's temporary replacement will step up, but they are also keenly aware that the clock is ticking on a season filled with both high hopes and substantial setbacks.