The Atlanta Braves are navigating a tumultuous season marked by a series of injuries to key players, the latest being Austin Riley, who is sidelined with a broken hand. Riley's injury is a significant setback for the Braves, as the third baseman is expected to be out for six to eight weeks. This adds to the growing list of pivotal players who have been out of commission, including Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Ozzie Albies.
With Riley out, the Braves are in urgent need of a replacement at third base. The team is considering several options, among which Yuli Gurriel and Gio Urshela stand out as the most likely candidates.
Potential Solutions
Gio Urshela, who was recently released by the Detroit Tigers, is reportedly on the verge of signing a major-league deal with the Braves. Urshela's performance this season has been less than stellar, with a batting average of .243/.286/.333 over 92 games, including five home runs and 37 RBIs. His offensive production has noticeably declined since his more productive year in 2022. Despite these figures, Urshela might still be a viable option for Atlanta. "According to Sherman, the team plans to give him some reps at third to see if he's a valid option," a source explained.
On the other hand, Yuli Gurriel has spent his year at Triple-A Gwinnett and boasts a more promising stat line with a .300/.380/.498 batting average over 72 games. Gurriel has hit 12 home runs, driven in 48 runs, scored 38 times, and even stolen 11 bases. However, his experience at third base is limited; he hasn't played the position in the majors since 2021 and hasn't been a regular starter there since 2019.
Current Standing
Despite the injuries and roster challenges, the Braves have shown resilience. They recently returned home after a successful west coast trip, during which they won five of their last seven games. Currently, they hold the last National League wild-card spot, leading the New York Mets by a game and a half. However, they trail the Philadelphia Phillies by seven games.
The Braves' upcoming schedule includes a crucial three-game series against the Phillies, starting Tuesday. This series may prove pivotal in their quest to improve their standings and compensate for the thinning lineup exacerbated by Riley's absence.
As the season progresses, the Braves will need to find stability and consistency, especially in their infield, to maintain their playoff aspirations. The decision between Urshela and Gurriel could be critical. With Urshela's potential signing on the horizon, the team will likely test his capabilities at third base shortly. Meanwhile, Gurriel remains a strong contender given his impressive performance in Triple-A.
The Braves are determined to push through these challenging times, relying on a mix of veteran experience and youthful talent. Their ability to adapt to and overcome the injuries will define their season's success. As Riley and other injured players work towards their recoveries, the team's immediate focus remains on solidifying their infield and maintaining their competitive edge in the race for the postseason.