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Austin Riley 2026 Fantasy Baseball Outlook: Recent Injury History Creating Value for a Top 3B Option
Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley was a model of consistency from 2021 to 2023, playing in no less than 159 games each year, with no less than 33 home runs, 93 RBI, 90 runs scored, and a .273 batting average. However, the last two seasons have been marred by injury, averaging just 106 games played. These injuries were very different, though, and hopefully just one-time occurrences, as 2024's was a fractured hand as a result of a hit-by-pitch, and last year's was an abdominal strain that should be fully healed after having core surgery in August. Even though his last two seasons were cut short, the 2x All-Star was still pacing for at least 25 home runs, and in 2025, he registered 91st percentile or better in average exit velocity, barrel rate, and bat speed, all of which are strong power indicators. With those injuries in the rearview, the 28-year-old should have a productive season in store, which should be along the lines of 30 home runs, 90 RBI, and 90 runs scored. Fantasy managers may be getting a discount due to the recent injury bias, as Riley's NFBC ADP currently sits at 75, while RotoBaller ranks the 2x Silver Slugger award winner at 64 overall.
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