Austin Riley’s brief time in the outfield has produced mixed results, but the Braves are happy with his overall growth at the spot.
A natural third baseman, Riley began handling outfield duties a week before his unplanned promotion to the majors. The organization decided to play him more regularly in left field, but Ender Inciarte’s injury opened the door for his major-league debut.
Riley has been mostly serviceable, not jumping out as a defensive liability. There have been times it’s evident he lacks the natural instinct of an outfielder, but thus far his manager is impressed.
“It’s been pretty good,” Brian Snitker said. “He didn’t have a whole lot of snaps out there prior to coming up, but I think he’s done fine. He’s athletic. He’s moving around out there pretty good. He can play out there.”
Snitker lauded Riley’s play at third – where he started Wednesday night with Josh Donaldson having a day off – and credited Riley’s workout regimen and dedication to keeping himself in shape.
Riley’s versatility is already valuable, and whenever Inciarte returns, the onus will be on the Braves to work the rookie into the lineup, be it at third, first base or the outfield. His bat has already proven to be such an asset.
