Braves' Austin Riley Out 6-8 Weeks with Fractured Hand Injury After HBP vs. Angels

Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley is expected to miss approximately "six to eight weeks" after undergoing an MRI that revealed a fractured right hand on Monday.

Riley was hit on the wrist by a ball in the first inning of Atlanta's 3-1 victory against the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday.

He's the latest member of the Braves to deal with an extended injury absence, joining Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider. Ozzie Albies is also out after suffering a left wrist fracture on July 21.

The team brought back former outfielder Jorge Soler in a deal with the San Francisco Giants prior to the July 30 trade deadline, although he's missed four straight games due to a left hamstring strain.

The Braves have remained in the postseason picture despite their string of injuries in 2024, sitting at 66-58. They currently own a two-game lead over the New York Mets for the final National League wild card spot.

While Riley didn't earn an All-Star nod in 2024 after receiving the honor in each of the previous two seasons, he still represents a crucial part of Atlanta's lineup and it'll be difficult for his power at the plate to be replaced.

In 110 games, he racked up 19 home runs and 56 RBIs while posting a .783 OPS. He also recorded 26 doubles, tied for the No. 16 mark among all NL players.

In his absence, the Braves could rely on several players. They replaced Riley with Luke Williams on Sunday, although the 28-year-old has just two hits in 17 at-bats in 2024.

Atlanta could also call up prospect Nacho Alvarez Jr. to play third base, as he was previously promoted to the roster on July 21. He ranks as the team's No. 8 prospect in the latest farm system rankings from Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter.

While both players could step into the role, it'll be difficult for them to replicate Riley's offensive output as the Braves continue their postseason push.