Grant McAuley: Austin Riley Must Work Through Slump in Games

In this episode of Dukes & Bell, host Abe dives into the Atlanta Braves' current road trip with guest Grant McAuley, focusing on Austin Riley's ongoing slump and the team's strategic decisions around his lineup placement. McAuley argues that Riley must work through his struggles in games rather than relying on batting practice or rest, emphasizing that his spring training form suggests the issue is mental or mechanical rather than physical. The discussion also covers Michael Harris's ongoing quad issue, with concerns about avoiding a potential IL stint despite his recent hot streak. McAuley highlights Ozzie Albies' resurgence as a key factor in the Braves' offensive success, praising his all-around contributions and defensive improvement. The conversation shifts to the Mets and Phillies, with McAuley attributing both teams' struggles to poor roster construction, managerial instability, and injuries—despite high payrolls. He underscores the need for deeper organizational changes beyond managerial changes, using the Mets' failed moves (like trading Brandon Nimmo and Pete Alonso) and the Phillies' aging roster as examples. The episode closes with a preview of Spencer Strider's return and the Braves' upcoming series against Colorado, Seattle, and the Dodgers, while promoting McAuley’s podcast From the Diamond.