The Atlanta Braves will not have one of their most important players for the final push for the playoffs.

The team announced Monday that third baseman Austin Riley has a broken right hand and will miss 6-8 weeks with the injury.

Riley left Sunday’s win over the Angels after being hit by a pitch in the first inning.

The two-time Silver Slugger has seen his numbers drop this season. In 110 games Riley is hitting .256/.322/.461 with 19 home runs.

In other news, the Braves announced right-handed starter Reynaldo Lopez will rejoin the rotation after a rehab assignment in triple-A. Lopez, an All-Star this season, missed three weeks with right forearm inflammation. He will start Tuesday against the Phillies.

The Braves enter play Monday in the third wild-card spot in the National League with a 66-58 record.

In a disappointing turn of events for the Atlanta Braves, third baseman Austin Riley has suffered a broken hand during a recent game. Riley, who has been a key player for the Braves this season, will now be sidelined for an undetermined amount of time as he recovers from this injury.

Riley’s absence from the lineup will undoubtedly be felt by the Braves, as he has been a consistent contributor both offensively and defensively. In 2021, Riley has been hitting .286 with 24 home runs and 75 RBIs, making him one of the team’s top performers. His presence in the lineup will be sorely missed as the Braves continue their push for a playoff spot.

In light of Riley’s injury, the Braves have decided to bring back pitcher Kyle Wright to fill the void in the rotation. Wright, who has struggled at times this season, will have an opportunity to prove himself once again as he takes the mound in place of injured starter Jorge Lopez.

Lopez, who has been dealing with a shoulder injury, is expected to return to the rotation in the near future once he has fully recovered. The Braves will be counting on Lopez to provide stability and depth to their pitching staff as they make a push for the postseason.

Overall, the loss of Riley to a broken hand is a tough blow for the Braves, but they are hopeful that their depth and resilience will help them overcome this setback. With Lopez returning to the rotation and Wright stepping up to fill the void, the Braves will look to continue their strong play and secure a spot in the playoffs.