The Atlanta Braves are not strangers to adversity, but the 2023 season has brought a particularly grueling set of challenges with a slew of injuries that have sidelined key players. As one of baseball’s storied franchises, the Braves have shown resilience but face an uphill battle to maintain their position in the playoff race.
Riley's Injury: A Significant Blow
Among the recent setbacks, the loss of Austin Riley to a broken hand is a significant blow. The talented third baseman is expected to be out for six to eight weeks, a timeline that could stretch into the crux of the regular season. Riley’s absence joins a growing list of pivotal Braves nursing injuries, including Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Ozzie Albies.
Riley’s injury leaves a sizeable hole at third base, prompting the Braves to explore their options vigorously. The hunt for a suitable replacement is now a top priority, with the team vying to find a player who can step in and deliver both defensively and offensively.
Potential Replacements: Urshela and Gurriel
Two names have surfaced as potential solutions: Yuli Gurriel and Gio Urshela. Both players bring different strengths and experiences, presenting the Braves with intriguing options.
Gio Urshela, recently released by the Detroit Tigers, is reportedly close to signing a major-league deal with Atlanta. Urshela batted .243/.286/.333 over 92 games this season, contributing five home runs and 37 RBIs. However, his offensive production has significantly dipped since his last productive season in 2022. Despite this, “According to Sherman, the team plans to give him some reps at third to see if he's a valid option,” a source explained, highlighting the urgency and necessity of finding a reliable replacement for Riley.
Yuli Gurriel, on the other hand, has spent the entire year with Triple-A Gwinnett. His performance has been noteworthy, posting a .300/.380/.498 slash line over 72 games. Gurriel’s stats include 12 home runs, 48 RBIs, 38 runs, and 11 steals, presenting an impressive resume that might translate well if given the opportunity at the major league level. However, Gurriel hasn’t played third base in the majors since 2021 and hasn’t started there since 2019, raising questions about his readiness to assume the role.
The Braves' Current Momentum
Amid the turbulence, the Braves have recently enjoyed a successful west coast trip, winning five of their last seven games. This surge has helped them secure the last NL wild-card spot, positioning them a game and a half ahead of the New York Mets while trailing the Philadelphia Phillies by seven games.
The timing of the Braves’ next series is critical. As Atlanta is set to host the Phillies for a three-game stretch starting Tuesday, the series could significantly impact their standing within the NL East. The Braves' lineup, already precariously thin, faces a formidable challenge in maintaining this momentum given the current roster limitations.
Looking Forward
The team’s front office is undoubtedly weighing the pros and cons of their options. Urshela’s imminent signing suggests a lean towards an immediate, if not fully guaranteed, solution. Meanwhile, Gurriel waits in the wings, potentially offering a more dynamic albeit less proven option at third base. Both players represent calculated risks that the Braves must navigate as they aim to solidify their roster for the stretch run.
How the Braves manage these changes will be pivotal to their success this season. Their ability to remain competitive in the face of significant adversity showcases not only the depth of their talent pool but also the strategic acumen of their coaching staff and front office. With key players returning from injury and new faces potentially stepping up, the remainder of the season holds much anticipation and promise for Braves fans.
Regardless of the outcome, the Braves’ determination and strategic choices in this challenging season exemplify the resilience and grit that have come to define the franchise. With crucial games ahead and the stakes higher than ever, Atlanta’s journey forward promises to be a compelling narrative worth watching.