Austin Riley is out of the Atlanta Braves’ lineup again Tuesday but appears to be progressing. MLB.com’s Mark Bowman reports that Riley has been cleared to take some soft-toss hacks in the cage prior to Tuesday’s game against the Chicago Cubs.
Riley is going to take some soft-toss swings in the cage today
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) May 21, 2024
This is the first time Riley has swung a bat since he experienced soreness in his side after a swing and miss on May 12 in New York. An MRI exam showed inflammation in the area and the Braves have played it very safe in an effort to prevent the injury becoming worse. Riley missed all seven games of the previous homestand. He’s been taking part in fielding drills and throwing, but today is the first time he has swung a bat.
If he comes through today feeling good, then he good progress fairly quickly from there. The team didn’t initially think that the injury was serious and elected not to place him on the 10-day injured list. The Braves haven’t needed an extra infielder while Riley was out and have Luke Williams available if another injury were to occur. Zack Short has started every game at third base in Riley’s absence.
Updated – Riley spoke about the injury today and said that it has been a frustrating situation.
“This has been driving me nuts. I love being out there and competing with the guys”
Austin Riley gives an update on how he is feeling and his journey on the IL⬇️ pic.twitter.com/A77iLKmJ0q
— Bally Sports: Braves (@BravesOnBally) May 21, 2024
