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Braves get more positive injury news for Austin Riley

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Alex Lord | Last updated 5/14/24

The Braves are gearing up for the second of a three-game series against the Cubs at Truist Park, and for the second game in a row, Austin Riley isn’t in the lineup.

Atlanta’s All-Star third baseman was removed from Sunday’s game early with soreness in his midsection, but Brian Snitker played down the seriousness of the injury.

He wasn’t in the lineup against the Cubs last night because he woke up sore in the morning, leading to an MRI that revealed nothing more than inflammation. It seemed Riley avoided an IL stint, and that notion was furthered today.

Snitker told Atlanta media that Austin Riley felt “much better” and was even “having trouble finding the spot that’s sore in his side,” per David O’Brien of The Athletic.

Austin Riley felt “much better” today and was even having trouble finding the spot that’s sore in his side, Snitker said. Still day-to-day, but sounds like IL definitely not needed, barring any setbacks.

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) May 14, 2024

Zack Short started last night in Riley’s place and came up big on offense and defense, knocking in a run as well as scoring one of his own. The Braves are obviously expecting Austin Riley to return rather soon, but seeing Short step up when called upon is encouraging.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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