SAN DIEGO – Not to be lost in the Braves’ stunning 10-8 victory over the Padres in extra innings, third baseman Austin Riley achieved another career milestone.
Riley had two RBIs, earning his first 100-RBI campaign. In his breakout season, Riley is hitting .304/.370/.531 with 30 doubles, 32 home runs and now 100 RBIs. His .901 OPS is fifth best in the National League.
The slugger also joined Chipper Jones and Eddie Mathews as the only third basemen in franchise history to post 30 doubles, 30 homers and 100 RBIs in a season. Jones achieved such three times (1999, 2000, 2001) while Mathews did so once (1953).
It’s another feather in the cap for Riley, who at only 24 is having one of the best seasons for a Braves third baseman.
“One hundred RBIs for Austin, what a great accomplishment,” manager Brian Snitker said. “When you look at his year, it’s unbelievable. Just a great accomplishment.”
Snitker added he thought this was the first time he’s had a team with three players who’ve collected 100 RBIs. Outfielder Adam Duvall leads the NL with 111 RBIs, though 68 came with Miami. Second baseman Ozzie Albies also reached the 100-RBI mark for the first time in his career during the team’s road trip. Riley was stellar over the past week, posting nine two-out RBIs across the Braves’ series in Arizona and San Diego (before the finale).
Riley has ascended into one of MLB’s premier third baseman and reaching 100 RBIs is just further validation for his growth as a hitter. The Braves will hope Riley has the postseason platform to showcase his ability in October. That question will be answered this week.
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