SATURDAY UPDATE: The Braves were forced to put Austin Riley on the 10-day injured list due to a strained right abdomen. He’ll be out at least through the All-Star break, missing the rest of this weekend’s series against the Cardinals and the start of the second half, when the Braves get back to action with a six-game homestand against the Yankees and Giants.
UPDATE: Riley was pulled due to lower abdominal tightness, per the team.
Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley unexpectedly exited Friday night’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite Riley starting the contest and batting third in the order, Luke Williams pinch-hit in his place during the top of the fourth inning and replaced him in the field.
Why Riley was pulled remains unclear at this moment as the team has not yet released any information.
However, the most likely outcome is that the star third baseman suffered an injury of some sort. On that note, it’s possible the move is simply precautionary rather than an issue to worry about.
Riley slashes .274/.324/.441 this season with a .783 OPS. With 51 runs, 48 RBIs and 14 home runs, the 28-year-old has been one of few bright spots for a Braves team which has suffered plenty of tough moments so far.
Atlanta sits 40-52 on the year, drastically underperforming playoff expectations.
This article will be updated as information becomes available.
