Austin Riley

Riley made some notable gains last year after he looked like he might fall out of fantasy-relevance entirely with the way he closed his 2019 season. He essentially traded off some power for contact, as his swing percentage dropped, his contact rate increased, and he improved on both his walk and strikeout rates. Although there was some question as to whether the Braves would add another third baseman in free agency, it appears they're content to roll with Riley to begin the year. That should make him a cheap source of power for fantasy, one whose batting average (.262 xBA last year) won't hurt you too badly.

Austin Riley expected to begin 2021 at third base

Austin Riley is expected to begin the 2021 season at third base, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network.

Fantasy Impact

Morosi added that the Braves are more focused on adding a left fielder than they are a third baseman so that would give Riley the opportunity to begin the year at the hot corner. He started 45 games at third base last year but got some run in left field and third base as well. Riley isn't known for his defense but Atlanta must feel comfortable enough having him start the year at third.