LOS ANGELES, CA — Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley made a memorable first appearance at the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, hosted at Dodger Stadium. The former DeSoto Central High School star confirmed his emergence as one of the game’s elite power hitters, achieving a statistical feat last accomplished by a franchise legend.
A Historic First Half
Before the Mid-Summer Classic, Riley put together a monumental stretch, showcasing his elite power and ability to sustain a high level of production.
Pre-All-Star Break Performance: Riley slugged 27 home runs in the first half of the season (prior to the break), leading the majors with 9 home runs in July alone.
Exclusive Club: Riley became only the second player in Atlanta Braves franchise history to accumulate at least 100 hits and 25 home runs before the All-Star break, joining the legendary Hall of Famer Hank Aaron.
“I’m pumped, you know like I said this is a huge honor,” Riley said. “(I’m) super excited to be a part of this. Glad my family is able to make it out here… it’s going to be a crazy experience and try to take everything in for what it’s worth and enjoy it.”
Mid-Summer Classic Performance
Riley was one of six Braves players named to the National League All-Star team (alongside Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, Chris Sale, and others, per search results). In the game, he went 1-for-2, recording a strikeout in the 6th inning before notching a single in the 8th. The American League ultimately won the contest, defeating the National League 3-2.
The information highlights Austin Riley’s historic first half. Given the Braves are now facing a need for more offensive consistency after missing the playoffs, what adjustments or specific improvements should Riley focus on in the second half of the season to help the team return to contention?
