Braves’ Austin Riley named NL Player of the Week

“It means a lot,” Riley said. “For me, if you can help the team win and put up good at-bats, play good defense, that’s the goal. And I’m very fortunate to receive the award.”

Asked if he ever thought about getting national recognition when he was younger, Riley said: “You definitely dream about it, for sure. I’ve been fortunate, to say the least. I think as a little kid, you just dream about playing in the big leagues and get that opportunity. To be able to be here for a couple years, it’s been awesome.”

Five other Braves were picked for the July 19 All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium. Riley might still get added to the NL roster if injuries occur to other players before the game.

Riley entered Monday batting .282 with a .907 OPS. He has 23 home runs and 56 RBIs. He was a big part of the Braves going 6-1 last week.

In Sunday’s win over Washington, Riley drove in three runs, including a game-tying homer and a game-winning hit. The 25-year-old hit homers in each of the final two games of the series versus the Nationals.

“I like to see him get rewarded and recognized for what he can do,” manager Brian Snitker said. “He kind of gets overshadowed with the other two really good All-Star-caliber third basemen (Manny Machado and Nolan Arenado), and this guy is one too. Austin Riley is an All-Star-caliber third baseman, so it’s good to see him recognized for the work that he’s done.”

Riley was deserving of an All-Star nod. Since June 1, he has hit .319 with a 1.014 OPS. He has launched 11 homers while driving in 31 runs over that span.

He would seem to be a top candidate if the NL team needs an alternate for the All-Star Game.

Rangers shortstop Corey Seager was the AL player of the week.