Atlanta Braves slugger Austin Riley has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024 season due to his fractured right hand, which has not healed sufficiently. A CT scan confirmed that he will not recover in time for the postseason. Currently, the Braves are just one game away from securing a Wild Card spot in the National League.
Riley suffered the injury on August 18 when he was hit by a pitch from Los Angeles Angels pitcher Jack Kochanowicz. His recovery is expected to be slow, and he still has his cast on, eliminating any hopes of returning this season. The fracture is located at the base of his hamate bone. This season, the 27-year-old has achieved a 2.8 WAR, a .256 batting average, 19 home runs, and 56 RBIs.
Braves Two-Time Silver Slugger Winner Austin Riley Out for Season
Austin Riley is OUT for the rest of the season, Brian Snitker announced.
A CT scan on his broken hand showed that it wouldn't heal fast enough to be available during the postseason if needed. pic.twitter.com/a2qb1jVnle
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) September 24, 2024
Earlier this season, Riley was also on the injured list in May due to an oblique strain. Should the Braves manage to reach the postseason, they will miss his powerful bat as well as his significant defensive contributions at third base, including a standout play made just before his injury on August 16.
Riley is known for his impressive baseball instincts and strong arm. He is among several key players currently sidelined for the Braves, alongside Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuña Jr., Reynaldo Lopez, and A.J. Minter. As the postseason nears, injuries are proving to be a challenge for many teams.
In addition to his two All-Star selections and Silver Slugger Awards, Riley received the Heart and Hustle Award in 2023, honoring players who show exceptional passion for the game.
