What is "austin riley"?

Austin Riley is a professional baseball player who plays as a third baseman for the Atlanta Braves in Major League Baseball (MLB). He was born on April 2, 1997, in Memphis, Tennessee, and was drafted by the Braves in the first round of the 2015 MLB Draft. Riley made his MLB debut on May 15, 2019, and has since become a key player for the Braves, known for his power hitting and defensive skills.

Riley's journey to the majors began in the minor leagues, where he quickly rose through the ranks within the Braves' farm system. In 2018, he played for the Mississippi Braves, the Braves' Double-A affiliate, where he batted .333 with 12 home runs and 47 RBIs in just 75 games. His impressive performance earned him a promotion to the Gwinnett Stripers, the Braves' Triple-A affiliate, where he continued to excel at the plate.

Riley's call-up to the majors came in May 2019, when he was brought up to fill in for an injured teammate. He made an immediate impact, hitting a home run in his MLB debut against the St. Louis Cardinals. Riley's power hitting ability was on full display during his rookie season, as he hit 18 home runs in just 80 games, finishing the season with a .226 batting average and 49 RBIs.

In addition to his offensive prowess, Riley has also shown strong defensive skills at third base. He has a strong arm and good range, making him a reliable defender at the hot corner. Riley's versatility has also been an asset for the Braves, as he has the ability to play in the outfield as well, providing the team with flexibility in their lineup.

Riley's performance in his rookie season earned him a spot on the All-Rookie Team and garnered attention from fans and analysts alike. He was seen as a key part of the Braves' young core of talented players, alongside the likes of Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies. Riley's power hitting and defensive abilities made him a valuable asset for the team, and he quickly became a fan favorite in Atlanta.

In the shortened 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Riley continued to make strides in his development as a player. He hit .239 with 8 home runs and 27 RBIs in 51 games, showing that he could be a consistent contributor to the Braves' lineup. Riley's performance helped the Braves secure their third consecutive National League East division title and advance to the postseason.

As of the 2021 season, Riley has solidified his place as the Braves' starting third baseman. He has continued to showcase his power at the plate, hitting a career-high 33 home runs and driving in 107 RBIs in 2021. Riley's offensive production has been crucial for the Braves, especially in the absence of key players due to injuries.

Riley's success on the field has not gone unnoticed, as he was named the National League Player of the Month in August 2021. He batted .324 with 13 home runs and 29 RBIs during the month, helping the Braves maintain their position in the playoff race. Riley's impressive performance has also earned him consideration for the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, as he has been a key contributor to the team's success throughout the season.

Off the field, Riley is known for his work ethic and dedication to the game. He is often seen putting in extra work before and after games, constantly striving to improve his skills and help his team win. Riley's teammates and coaches have praised his commitment to the game and his positive attitude, making him a respected leader in the clubhouse.

In conclusion, Austin Riley is a talented young player who has quickly established himself as a key contributor for the Atlanta Braves. His power hitting, defensive skills, and work ethic have made him a valuable asset for the team, and he has become a fan favorite in Atlanta. With his continued development and success on the field, Riley has the potential to be a cornerstone player for the Braves for years to come.