Player Review: Stone Cold Austin Riley

Austin Riley was one of the only hitters who showed up for the Braves NLDS loss to the Phillies. He finished that series 6-for-17 (.353) with two homers and three RBI. He even hit a clutch two-run homer that led to the Braves winning game two. Riley had a great year statistically as he had a .281 batting average with 37 homers, 97 RBI, and he had a career-high 59 walks. He was everything the Braves needed him to be from the third spot in the lineup.

Austin Riley turned the most double plays as a third baseman in the MLB. (38) His defense has improved from year to year and this year was his best work. He had a 97% fielding percentage and the 10th highest WAR in the majors. (5.9) He had the third highest Rtot (total fielding runs above average) for third baseman. (13) Riley was a pivotal part of this team on offense and defense.

Riley is one of three finalists for a Gold Glove in the National League, joining Ke'Bryan Hayes (Pittsburgh) and Ryan McMahon (Colorado).