The Atlanta Braves are looking to bounce back in 2026 and reestablish themselves as a legitimate contender in the National League.
If they do, a major factor will be improved production from several key players, especially third basemanAustin Riley, who has been inconsistent over the last two seasons.
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At his peak, the 28-year-old was one of the league’s best hitters and a driving force behind Atlanta’s success, earning two All-Star selections and two Silver Slugger Awards across his seven MLB seasons.
However, his production has dipped recently. In 2025, he posted a .260 batting average, .309 on base percentage, .737 OPS, 16 home runs and 54 RBIs across 102 games, solid numbers but not the elite output he delivered earlier in his career.
Some of that decline may be tied to health, as Riley underwent season-ending core muscle surgery in August 2025, a procedure the Braves hope will allow him to play without discomfort moving forward. He is expected to be fully ready for Spring Training.
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Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley (27) © Brett Davis-Imagn Images


(© Brett Davis-Imagn Images

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As Riley works toward a rebound season, he has also been making moves off the field this week. On Friday, he announced on Instagram that he had partnered with Unie Worldwide, a company known for producing custom apparel, uniforms and branded merchandise for businesses across a wide range of industries.
The post highlighted why the partnership resonated with him, as Riley wrote, “I’m so excited to announce my partnership with UNIE. A uniform is more than just what you wear every day, it’s what you do in it that represents who you are and what you stand for. UNIE is the worldwide leader in custom MERCH & UNIFORMS for every kind of business.”
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While the partnership adds to Riley’s growing presence off the field, the focus now shifts back to baseball as he prepares for a critical 2026 season.
Riley holds the largest contract in Atlanta Braves history, a 10-year, $212 million extension signed in August 2022 that runs through 2032, and the Braves are counting on him to return to the elite form that once made him one of the most feared hitters in baseball.
Related: Braves Lose Player to Nationals Amid MLB Free Agency
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 31, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.