Braves' Austin Riley Makes Brutally Honest Realization Before Spring Training

The 28-year-old third baseman acknowledges he's "not getting any younger" as he prepares for the 2026 MLB season.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley, who struggled with injuries and regression last season, recently made a candid admission about his age and the potential impact on his career as he prepares for the upcoming 2026 MLB season. Riley, 28, said "I'm not getting any younger" and acknowledged the wear and tear his body has endured over his Braves tenure.

Why it matters

Riley's comments reflect the reality that even star players can face declining production and increased injury risk as they age, especially those with extensive injury histories like Riley. The Braves will need Riley to bounce back to form if they hope to return to the playoffs after missing out in 2025, making his health and performance a key factor in the team's success.

The details

Riley dealt with numerous injury concerns during his time with the Braves, and his production dropped off in 2025 even when he was able to play. The team is hoping Riley can get healthy and regain his previous form, which included an NL MVP award, to help the Braves return to the playoffs after missing out last season for the first time in eight years.

  • The 2026 MLB season is slated to get underway in late March.

The players

Austin Riley

A 28-year-old third baseman for the Atlanta Braves who has dealt with injuries and regression in recent seasons.

Ronald Acuna Jr.

The Braves' star outfielder who recently revealed he is fully healthy heading into spring training.

Spencer Schwellenbach

A Braves starting pitcher who will miss the opening chunk of the 2026 season due to injury.

Walt Weiss

The new manager of the Atlanta Braves, promoted from within the organization after Brian Snitker left the role.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not getting any younger.”

— Austin Riley (11 Alive on X)

What’s next

The Braves will be hoping Riley can bounce back to form and stay healthy as they aim to return to the playoffs in 2026 after missing out the previous season.

The takeaway

Riley's candid admission about his age and the wear on his body underscores the challenges even star players can face as they get older, especially those with injury histories. The Braves will need Riley to regain his previous production if they want to contend in 2026 after missing the playoffs in 2025.