The Atlanta Braves are navigating a tumultuous season, repeatedly stung by the injury bug. As they fight to maintain their playoff aspirations, the latest setback involves third baseman Austin Riley, who has been sidelined with a broken hand. Riley's absence, estimated to last six to eight weeks, adds another name to a growing list of key players missing significant time this year.
Riley's injury compounds the Braves' troubles, who have also lost Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Ozzie Albies at various points this season. The timing couldn't be worse for an Atlanta team that is striving to secure the last NL wild-card spot. Currently, the Braves hold a narrow lead of one and a half games over the New York Mets, but they trail the Philadelphia Phillies by a considerable seven-game margin. The Braves' immediate challenge is an upcoming three-game series against the Phillies, a critical matchup that could define their postseason fate.
Seeking a Solution at Third Base
In light of Riley's injury, the Braves' front office is actively seeking a pragmatic solution to fill the void at third base. Two potential candidates have emerged: Yuli Gurriel and Gio Urshela. Each brings their own set of attributes and challenges to the table, making the decision a nuanced one for the Braves.
Gio Urshela appears to be on the brink of signing a major-league deal with the team, according to recent reports. Urshela, who was recently released by the Detroit Tigers, has had a less-than-stellar season at the plate. Over 92 games, he posted a batting line of .243/.286/.333, with five home runs and 37 RBIs, a noticeable drop-off from his productive 2022 season. Nevertheless, Urshela could provide a much-needed stopgap for the Braves as they evaluate his potential contributions at third base.
“According to Sherman, the team plans to give him some reps at third to see if he’s a valid option,” noted a source familiar with the Braves' plans. Urshela's recent dip in offensive performance raises questions, but his past success provides a glimmer of hope that he could stabilize the infield during Riley's recovery.
Gurriel's Triple-A Success
Yuli Gurriel offers another intriguing option, though his situation is markedly different. Currently playing for Triple-A Gwinnett, Gurriel has displayed impressive offensive numbers this season. He has slashed .300/.380/.498 over 72 games, amassing 12 home runs, 48 RBIs, 38 runs, and even 11 steals. Despite this, there are concerns about his defensive capabilities at third base. The last time Gurriel played third base in the majors was in 2021, and he hasn't been a starter at the position since 2019.
Atlanta's management must weigh these considerations carefully. Gurriel's bat certainly has the potential to invigorate the Braves' lineup, but his defensive rust at third base could pose significant risks, especially in high-stakes games down the stretch.
Turning Home Success into Momentum
Despite the slew of injuries, the Braves have recently found some success on the road, winning five of their last seven games on a grueling west coast trip. As they return home, the team hopes to carry this momentum into their contest against the Phillies. However, the Braves' lineup remains precariously thin, and the integration of either Gurriel or Urshela into the roster will be closely scrutinized.
Manager Brian Snitker and the Braves' coaching staff have a delicate balance to maintain. They must keep the existing roster fresh and competitive while seamlessly incorporating any new additions. The Braves' pitching staff, led by veterans and young arms alike, will also need to step up, providing the kind of support that can withstand the temporary loss of Riley’s offensive production.
As the season progresses, the Braves will have to rely on a combination of strategic management and perhaps a bit of fortuitous luck to keep their playoff hopes alive. With a fiercely competitive NL East race and numerous teams vying for wild-card spots, every decision, play, and game carries significant weight. Whether it’s Gurriel’s bat or Urshela’s glove that makes the difference, the Braves are poised to fight till the end in what has already been a rollercoaster campaign.