Atlanta gets unwelcome news on key bat.
The Atlanta Braves’ hopes of getting third baseman Austin Riley back in the near future have taken a step back.
On Tuesday, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Gabe Burns reported that Riley experienced renewed soreness in his abdomen during a workout and is not expected to be activated from the 10-day injured list anytime soon.
The 28-year-old has been sidelined since Aug. 4 with a strained lower abdominal muscle, his second stint on the IL for the same injury in two months.
Before the injury interruption, Riley had appeared in 102 games, batting .260 with a .737 OPS, 16 home runs, 54 RBIs and 20 doubles.
Austin Riley felt soreness while working out today. It doesn’t seem like he’s going to return any time soon.
— Gabe Burns (@GabeBurnsAJC) August 19, 2025
Austin Riley’s Career and Accomplishments
Since debuting with Atlanta in May 2019, Riley has developed into one of the National League’s premier power hitters and a cornerstone of the Braves’ infield. His resume includes:
- World Series Champion - 2021, playing a pivotal role in Atlanta’s first title since 1995.
- Two-time All-Star - 2022, 2023.
- Two Silver Slugger Awards - 2021, 2023.
- Two All-MLB First Team selections - 2021, 2023.
- Franchise-record contract - Signed a 10-year, $212 million extension in August 2022, the largest in Braves history.
Riley topped 30 home runs each season between 2021-2023 and holds a .270 batting average, .492 slugging percentage, 169 home runs and 483 RBIs in his seven-year MLB career.
Riley's Current Injury and Chance of Returning
A first abdominal strain in July cost Riley two weeks; he returned July 25 but struggled, hitting .108 over 39 plate appearances before re-injuring the muscle on a diving defensive play and being placed back on the IL on Aug. 4.
On Monday, Riley ran the bases as part of his rehab progression but reported lingering discomfort. The following day’s workout produced more soreness, prompting the team to halt any immediate return plans.
The Braves have not provided a timetable for Riley’s return; with just over one month left in the regular season, the possibility of him being shut down entirely is very real.
With Atlanta out of playoff contention (56-69 entering Tuesday), there is little incentive to rush him back.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Category: Baseball
