Austin Riley Bio
Michael Austin Riley is an American professional baseball third baseman for the Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball (MLB). The Braves selected him in the first round, 41st overall, of the 2015 MLB draft. A star pitcher and third baseman in high school, Riley originally committed to play college baseball at Mississippi State University, before being drafted by the Braves and opting to forgo a college baseball career. Riley made his major league debut in 2019 and has since become a key player, earning accolades including All-Star selections and a World Series title.
Early Life and Background
Austin Riley was born on April 2, 1997, in Coldwater, Mississippi, to parents Mike and Elisa Riley. He attended DeSoto Central High School in Southaven, Mississippi, where he showcased his talents as a shortstop and pitcher. During his freshman and sophomore years, Riley also played American football as a quarterback. However, he eventually decided to focus solely on baseball, despite his football coach wanting him to continue as a punter. Riley was committed to play for the Mississippi State Bulldogs baseball team until he was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 2015, opting to pursue a professional career instead of attending college.
Path to Baseball
The Atlanta Braves selected Austin Riley in the first round of the 2015 MLB draft, with the 41st overall pick. Despite his commitment to Mississippi State, he signed with the Braves for $1.6 million. He made his professional debut with the Gulf Coast Braves that same year, where he performed well, batting .304 with 12 home runs over 60 games. Over the next few seasons, Riley continued to develop in the Braves’ farm system, earning promotions and gaining recognition as a top prospect. In 2019, Riley opened the season with the Gwinnett Stripers before being called up to the Atlanta Braves. His major league debut came on May 15, 2019, where he made an immediate impact by hitting a home run in his second at-bat.
Austin Riley Career
Early Career (2019-2021)
Austin Riley’s early career was marked by significant achievements and rapid development. In his debut season, he batted .226 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs in 297 plate appearances. He played various positions, including left field and third base. In 2021, Riley emerged as a star player, finishing the season with a .303 batting average, 33 home runs, and 107 RBIs. His performance earned him a Silver Slugger Award and contributed to the Braves winning the World Series that year.
Breakthrough (2022-Present)
The 2022 season was a turning point for Austin Riley. He signed a franchise-record ten-year contract extension worth $212 million, solidifying his place with the Braves. That year, he was selected as an All-Star for the first time and won the NL Player of the Month award in July. Riley continued to excel in 2023, earning his second All-Star selection and another Silver Slugger Award.
Notable Works and Milestones
Austin Riley’s signature achievements include his contributions to the Braves’ 2021 World Series championship and his multiple All-Star selections. He is recognized for his powerful hitting and strong defensive skills, making him a key player for the Atlanta Braves.
Austin Riley Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Austin Riley has received several nominations for prestigious awards, reflecting his impact on the game and his performance on the field.
Austin Riley Awards Won
Austin Riley has won multiple awards, including two Silver Slugger Awards and two All-MLB First Team selections, highlighting his status as one of the top players in Major League Baseball.
Austin Riley Family
Austin Riley is married to Anna, and the couple has two sons. Their first son was born in April 2022, and their second son was born in July 2024. The family resides in Hernando, Mississippi.
Personal Life
Austin Riley and Anna were married in November 2018. They initially lived in Coldwater, Mississippi, before moving to Hernando. Riley’s cousin, Keegan James, also pursued a baseball career, playing at Mississippi State and later in the minor leagues.
