Austin Riley Injury Update
Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley left Friday night’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals after just three innings due to lower abdominal tightness. The team announced his removal shortly after, sparking concern among fans and fantasy baseball managers alike.
Riley had started the game strong, recording an RBI single and scoring in the first inning before being replaced by Luke Williams as a pinch hitter in the fourth.
Key Details:
- Injury: Lower abdominal tightness
- Date: July 11, 2025
- Game: Braves vs. Cardinals
- Status: Removed after three innings, severity yet to be determined
What Happened to Austin Riley?
Riley’s exit was abrupt and unexpected. After contributing early in the game, he did not return to the field following the third inning. The Braves have not released a detailed prognosis, but initial reports suggest the move was precautionary. Riley has been remarkably durable, missing only a handful of games over the past three seasons.
Braves' Austin Riley Leaves Game Due to Abdominal Tightness
The Braves confirmed via social media and postgame interviews that Riley’s removal was due to lower abdominal tightness. This is not the first time Riley has dealt with injuries—he previously missed time in 2024 due to a fractured right hand, but this current issue is unrelated and appears to be muscular.
Is Austin Riley Playing Tonight?
As of the latest update, Riley’s status for the next game remains uncertain. The Braves have not made an official announcement regarding his availability for tonight’s matchup. Fantasy managers and fans should monitor team updates and pre-game reports for the latest information.
Who is Austin Riley?
Austin Riley (full name Michael Austin Riley), born April 2, 1997 in Memphis, Tennessee, is a star third baseman for Major League Baseball’s Atlanta Braves. He bats and throws right-handed, stands 6'2″ (188 cm) tall and weighs around 225 lb (102 kg).
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Drafted by the Braves in the 1st round (41st overall) of the 2015 MLB Draft out of DeSoto Central High School (Mississippi), Riley chose a professional path over college ball at Mississippi State
Gatorade Player of the Year.
He made his MLB debut on May 15, 2019, homering in his second at-bat in his debut game.
Achievements & Career Highlights
Breakout Seasons & Awards
- 2021: Breakout year—.303 AVG, 33 HR, 107 RBI. Became one of the youngest Braves third basemen to hit .300+ with 30+ HR and 100+ RBI; helped the Braves win the World Series; earned a Silver Slugger Award and All‑MLB First Team honors
- Named a 2× MLB All-Star (2022, 2023) and awarded 2× Silver Slugger (2021, 2023)
- All‑MLB First Team selection in 2021 and 2023
- In July 2022, he was NL Player of the Month, set a Braves franchise record with 26 extra-base hits in a single month, and signed a 10-year, $212 million contract extension (a team record)
- Wikipedia
- MLB Player of the Week honors—e.g. in July 2023 he hit .400 with 6 HR and 16 RBI in one week .
Recent Performance
As of July 9, 2025: batting approximately .272–.274, with 14 home runs and 47–48 RBI for the season so far
Early July 2025: went 2-for-5 with a two‑run homer, double, and two RBIs in a win over the Athletics.
FAQ
Question 1: What is the latest update on Austin Riley’s injury?
Answer: Riley left the July 11 game against the Cardinals with lower abdominal tightness. The Braves have not yet provided a detailed prognosis.
Question 2: Is Austin Riley expected to miss significant time?
Answer: The severity of the injury is still unclear. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Question 3: Who will replace Riley if he cannot play?
Answer: Luke Williams is expected to take over at third base in Riley’s absence
Disclaimer
The information presented here is based on publicly available sources, including news reports, team statements, and statistical databases. Injury updates, player statuses, and performance data are subject to change and should be verified with official MLB communications, team announcements, or trusted sports media outlets. The opinions expressed (such as fan reactions or injury concerns) reflect public sentiment at the time and are not definitive medical or organizational statements. For the most accurate and timely updates, consult the Atlanta Braves' official channels or MLB.com.
