Braves’ Offensive Struggles Resurface as Riley Presses, Acuña Progresses

by Andrew Groover
The Atlanta Braves showed flashes of promise but were ultimately undone by familiar issues in a weekend series in Arizona, a topic Barrett Sallee and Chris Dimino addressed on the latest episode of Braves Central. The offense struggled in key moments, particularly in one-run games and with runners in scoring position.

Third baseman Austin Riley remains a focal point as he works through an early-season slump. Manager Walt Weiss acknowledged Riley is pressing, leading to a different approach that included giving him time to reset. That contrasts with past tendencies under manager Brian Snitker, who has often allowed hitters to play through struggles.

There were encouraging signs from Ronald Acuña Jr., who appears to be regaining form at the plate. The episode also previews the Braves’ upcoming series against the Los Angeles Angels and examines early-season trends, including the limitations of run differential as a meaningful indicator.