Austin Riley Exits Spring Training Game After Hit by Pitch

North Port, Florida — Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley exited Friday’s spring training game against the Washington Nationals after being hit on the right hand by a pitch. This incident raised concerns as it occurred on the same hand that he fractured last season.

The injury happened in the first inning when Riley took a fastball directly to his right hand. Despite the immediate pain, he managed to run the bases and took a grip strength test with the Braves training staff, which he passed. However, the team decided to pull him for precautionary measures as a safety protocol.

After leaving the field, the Braves indicated on X (formerly Twitter) that Riley would undergo X-rays later that day to ensure there was no fracture or further damage. Initial reports showed the X-rays were negative, but Riley is scheduled for a CT scan, as a clean X-ray earlier this season had missed an injury that was only identified later.

“The organization hoped for better injury luck in 2025, but it looks like the bad luck continues,” said Mark Bowman, Braves insider. “Riley already faced significant injury challenges last season, missing two months due to a fractured wrist.”

Accompanying Riley’s injury scare is the situation of catcher Sean Murphy, who is also facing a lengthy recovery after suffering a rib injury from a hit by pitch earlier this spring. Such injuries have put the Braves in a precarious position just weeks before the regular season begins.

Fans are understandably anxious about the implications of Riley’s injury history. In 2024, he recorded just 110 appearances due to injuries, managing a slash line of .256/.322/.461 with 19 home runs. Over the last four seasons, his averages have been more impressive, with 32 home runs and 88 RBIs per season. The hope is for a healthy and productive Riley to return to a lineup looking to replicate its success from the previous year.

Riley’s exit from the game echoes a similar situation from last August against the Los Angeles Angels, where a hit by pitch sidelined him for the remainder of the season. He was unavailable for comment after Friday’s game, as he had already exited the complex for further medical evaluation.

As of now, the Braves’ spring training has been mired by injuries, reflected in their 2-8 record in the last 10 games prior to Friday’s contest. Atlanta is eager to turn their luck around as the Opening Day approaches.

The Braves have yet to announce a timeline for Riley’s expected return, but fans remain hopeful that he can recover in time to contribute significantly in the upcoming season.

“We just need him back healthy, especially with Sean out,” said one of the Braves’ coaching staff. “Every game counts in this division.”