The Atlanta Braves’ 2025 season, once filled with promise, has taken a drastic downturn as a wave of injuries continues to derail the team’s hopes for a deep postseason run. Already struggling to maintain consistency amidst a depleted pitching rotation and missing key contributors, the Braves suffered yet another setback — this time involving star third baseman Austin Riley.
After being sidelined earlier this season, Riley found himself back on the injured list following a play during a game against the Cincinnati Reds. While attempting to escape a rundown, Riley appeared to aggravate a pre-existing abdominal issue. What initially seemed like a minor concern quickly escalated, and within a day of the incident, he was placed on the 10-day injured list for the second time in just a few weeks.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, the move was necessitated by a lower abdominal strain. Riley joins a growing list of Braves players struggling with injuries, including superstar Ronald Acuña Jr., who is still recovering from a right calf strain, and five starting pitchers currently relegated to the 60-day IL.
Although the Braves attempted to remain optimistic, Riley’s progress hasn’t inspired much confidence. Scheduled workouts on Tuesday failed to go as planned. Braves manager Brian Snitker expressed concern after Riley reported continued discomfort during running drills — a clear indication that his return to the lineup remains uncertain.
“He had his workouts on Tuesday as planned, but they didn’t go well,” reported Sports Illustrated’s Harrison Smajovits. “Riley was still feeling it while doing running drills. Snitker is also concerned about what could happen when the third baseman needs to make a diving play, which caused his latest injury in the first place.”
Just a day later, the situation escalated further. Riley was flown to Philadelphia to consult with Dr. William Meyers, a renowned specialist in core muscle injuries. According to The Athletic’s David O’Brien, there’s now concern that Riley could be dealing with a sports hernia — a far more complex and lingering injury that often requires surgery and extensive recovery.
While this news is certainly troubling for Braves fans and the organization alike, there may be a silver lining in the larger picture. With the Braves’ postseason chances fading quickly and the team slipping further out of contention, there’s little justification for rushing Riley back into action.
Given his value to the franchise — Riley signed a $212 million extension that runs through 2032, making it the longest and richest deal in team history — protecting his long-term health should take priority over any short-term ambitions. The risk of aggravating the injury, especially one as unpredictable as a core muscle strain or hernia, could have lasting consequences if not managed properly.
The Braves are clearly in a difficult position. With the heart of their rotation sidelined and key offensive players like Acuña and Riley dealing with setbacks, the reality of this season is starting to settle in. For a team that has been a consistent postseason presence over the past several years, 2025 may be remembered more for what could have been rather than what was accomplished.
At this point, all eyes are on Riley’s diagnosis and the team’s next steps. If surgery or extended rehab is required, the Braves may need to shift their focus to 2026 — ensuring their core players are fully healthy and ready to lead another charge for October glory. Until then, the prudent course is clear: don’t rush, don’t risk, and don’t compromise the future for a season already slipping away.