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Injuries hinder Austin Riley's potential as Braves' star player

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 9:08 PM

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

Injuries hinder Austin Riley's potential as Braves' star player

Summary

Austin Riley, the third baseman for the Atlanta Braves, has faced significant challenges due to injuries in recent seasons. After signing a 10-year, $212 million contract in August 2022, he experienced a decline in performance, playing only 102 games in 2025. His struggles began with inconsistent play, leading to diminished All-Star appearances since 2023 and reduced production, including a notable strikeout rate increase. Riley's recent season ended on August 18, 2024, after he sustained a fractured hand from a hit-by-pitch incident, representing a broader trend of injuries affecting the Braves' roster. Looking ahead, he aims for a comeback in upcoming seasons.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Austin Riley signed a $212 million contract with Atlanta in August 2022.
•Riley has not made an All-Star team since 2023 due to injuries.
•His 2024 season ended with a fractured hand on August 18.
•He played only 102 games in 2025, continuing his injury struggles.
•Riley's declining performance raises concerns among Braves fans.

Latest Updates

9:08 PMYahoo Sports — Injuries Ruined Austin Riley’s Rise to Superstardom

What they're saying

"
Baseball is a game of ups and downs. Things were trending up for Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley, who signed the largest contract in Braves history on Aug. 1, 2022. On that day, Riley signed a 10-year, $212 million extension with Atlanta through the 2032 season. In 2021 and 2022, Riley was considered one […] The post Injuries Ruined Austin Riley’s Rise to Superstardom appeared first on The Lead.
— Yahoo Sports

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