The Atlanta Braves are facing yet another test of resilience as their 2023 season continues to be marred by injuries to key players. The latest blow comes with the news that third baseman Austin Riley has suffered a broken hand. Riley is expected to miss six to eight weeks, a significant stretch for a team already grappling with several other critical injuries.
Injury Woes Continue
Riley's absence compounds an already troubling injury situation for the Braves. The team has been without the services of standout pitcher Spencer Strider, as well as star outfielders Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies, for various parts of the season. Strider, who has been a linchpin in the Braves' rotation, and the dynamic duo of Acuña and Albies, have all left voids that have been hard to fill.
As the Braves look to patch the gaps, the focus now shifts to finding a viable replacement for Riley at third base. The Braves have identified two potential candidates: Yuli Gurriel and Gio Urshela. Each brings their own set of skills and achievements, although both come with question marks.
Options at the Hot Corner
Gio Urshela, a veteran with major league experience, appears to be the frontrunner. Urshela is reportedly close to signing a major-league deal with the Braves, after being released by the Detroit Tigers. Over the course of 92 games this season, Urshela has posted a batting line of .243/.286/.333, contributing five home runs and 37 RBIs. Despite these contributions, Urshela's offensive output has shown noticeable decline since his productive 2022 season.
Meanwhile, Yuli Gurriel, who has spent the entire year with Triple-A Gwinnett, has demonstrated strong form in the minors. Over 72 games, Gurriel has batted .300/.380/.498, with 12 home runs, 48 RBIs, 38 runs scored, and 11 steals. However, Gurriel hasn’t played third base in the majors since 2021 and hasn’t started at the position since 2019. This raises questions about his defensive capabilities and readiness to step into a major-league role at a moment’s notice.
Team Performance Amid Challenges
Despite these setbacks, the Braves have shown grit and determination. They recently returned home from a successful west coast trip, having won five of their last seven games. Their efforts have kept them in the hunt for a playoff spot, as they currently hold the last National League wild-card position. They lead the New York Mets by a game and a half, though they trail the division-leading Philadelphia Phillies by seven games.
In a crucial upcoming series, the Braves are set to host the Phillies for a three-game set starting Tuesday. The matchup represents a pivotal moment in their season, offering both a challenge and an opportunity to close ground on their division rivals.
A Thin Lineup
With Riley sidelined and the team still reeling from other high-profile injuries, the Braves' lineup remains precariously thin. The need for reinforcements is immediate and imperative. According to a source, "the team plans to give [Urshela] some reps at third to see if he's a valid option."
Both Urshela and Gurriel offer potential solutions, but each comes with considerations that the Braves must weigh carefully. Urshela's major-league readiness and experience could provide stability, while Gurriel's potent minor-league performance offers a spark but with defensive uncertainties.
As the Braves navigate these turbulent waters, their resilience and ability to adapt will be critical in their quest to make a deep postseason run. The next few weeks will determine whether the Braves can overcome these hurdles or whether the toll of injuries will prove too great.