Atlanta Braves News: Austin Riley goes one step further, Hurston Waldrep sent to minors, more

Despite a disappointing 8-6 loss to the Rays on Sunday, the Braves should be greatly encouraged by the return of their expected offensive productivity over the weekend.

This is especially true in the case of Austin Riley.

Riley was able to literally double his season home run total over the weekend, as with a long ball in three straight games, Riley went from three home runs to six home runs on the season in less than 72 hours.

With Riley, the Braves lineup as a whole, including an incredible run from Jarred Kelenic out of the leadoff spot, seemed to regain some needed life. Let’s hope it’s this lineup’s usual June boost, and that better days are ahead.

Braves News

The Braves made some roster changes on Sunday, as Grant Holmes was recalled and made his major league debut on Sunday. Ray Kerr was sent to Gwinnett in a matching move.

Atlanta also offered Hurston Waldrep a return to Gwinnett. While he has shown many flashes of his immense talent, it is also clear that Waldrep can benefit from gaining more experience in the minors.

It was an emotional Sunday for many, including Austin Riley. Riley’s mentor, Mike Brumley, tragically passed away this weekend. Brumley was also a former Braves hitting instructor, having worked with several Braves past and present.

Nacho Alvarez continued to have an impressive start for his recent AAA promotion this weekend.

The AJC’s Justin Toscano wraps up the weekend’s takeaways for the Braves, Riley and Waldrep.

David O’Brien looked at how the Braves might approach the rotation as Waldrep returns to the minors.

The Braves hope to keep the offense rolling through the start of the week, but might find it a little difficult against the Tigers’ pitching staff.

Braves Podcasts

The latest episode of “755 is Forever” is available.

Brad Rowland and Scott Coleman are back with the latest episode of the Hammer Territory podcast, covering how the Braves offense is coming back to life.

https://hammer-territory-an-atlanta-braves-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/atlanta-braves-offense-bats-heating-up-riley-kelenic

MLB News

Mookie Betts suffered a broken hand Sunday, the latest injury to a very important member of the Dodgers. Yoshinobu Yamamoto was also placed on the injured list following an early exit upon his departure on Saturday.

The Orioles and Mets helped the Braves in the standings this weekend, as Baltimore earned wins in two of three games against the Phillies while the Mets swept the Padres.

Seattle made a big statement in its quest for an NL West crown with a weekend sweep against the Rangers.

Jasson Dominguez of the Yankees has been placed on the minor league injured list as he deals with an injury to his team.

Phillies star Trea Turner will return to action from the injured list on Monday. Turner hasn’t played since early May due to a hamstring injury.

The Giants placed starter Kyle Harrison on injured reserve with a sprained ankle.