Austin Riley Makes Admission at Atlanta Braves Spring Training

After an injury‑disrupted 2025 season, Austin Riley is entering spring training with a clear sense of urgency as he prepares for a critical year with the Atlanta Braves. The veteran third baseman has been one of the organization’s most reliable players for years, but recent injuries have slowed his momentum and tested his consistency.

Riley played in 102 games last season before undergoing season‑ending surgery in August to repair a core muscle injury. While he still managed to post a .260 batting average, .309 on‑base percentage and .737 OPS with 16 home runs and 54 RBIs, those numbers were below the standard he set earlier in his career.

For a player known for durability and middle‑of‑the‑order production, missing time proved to be one of the most frustrating parts of his season.

That frustration carried into spring training, as Riley reflected on the mental challenge of being sidelined during a crucial stretch of the year.

“It sucked. I pride myself on playing every day, posting every day and being a guy that walks in the clubhouse knowing my teammates can count on me to show up. So, it was tough,” Riley said on an MLB Network Radio appearance when asked about the mental aspect of his injury from 2025.

Austin Riley on the mental part of being hurt last year: "It sucked."#Braves#SpringTrainingTour
🔗 https://t.co/WG5zyiVTKmpic.twitter.com/BLSssxCdNc

— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) February 27, 2026

Now fully healthy, Riley is expected to be ready for the 2026 season without limitations. His return comes at an important time for Atlanta as the team looks to reestablish itself as a contender. Riley remains a central piece of that effort, both because of his production and his leadership within the clubhouse.

The 28‑year‑old is in the middle of a 10‑year, $212 million contract extension that runs through 2032, with a club option for 2033. He is set to earn $22 million in 2026, reflecting the organization’s long‑term belief in his ability to anchor the lineup.

At his peak, Riley has been among the top hitters in the National League. A two‑time All‑Star, two‑time Silver Slugger and a key contributor to Atlanta’s 2021 World Series championship, he also has three top‑10 finishes in MVP voting. That track record highlights the level he is capable of reaching when healthy.

For the Braves, getting Riley back to that form could make a significant difference. His power and consistency in the middle of the order help drive the offense, and his presence lengthens a lineup that already features several impact bats.

As he enters his eighth MLB season, all with Atlanta since being selected in the first round of the 2015 draft, Riley’s focus is simple: stay healthy, stay consistent and return to the level that made him one of the most dependable players in the game.