This Braves prospect could receive an opportunity at some point this season.
The Atlanta Braves are currently being linked to various starting pitchers in both free agency and potential trades. It seems as if Atlanta wants to upgrade its rotation before the start of the 2026 MLB season. However, at some point in 2026, 20-year-old Didier Fuentes may receive another opportunity at the big league level.
Fuentes was the Braves' No. 7 overall prospect in 2025, per MLB.com. He will probably begin 2026 in the minor leagues -- likely at Triple-A -- as he continues to develop. The right-hander did make his big league debut in 2025, though. While he struggled and pitched to a 13.85 ERA across four outings, Fuentes still features a bright future.
In Triple-A last season, Fuentes pitched to a 3.63 ERA across five starts. He also struck out 29 hitters and held opponents to a .238 batting average.
Fuentes is not expected to become an ace in MLB, although anything is possible. The Braves are likely hopeful that he can become a reliable No. 3 or even No. 2 starter in the future.
Braves' 2026 Starting Rotation Outlook
At the moment, Chris Sale and Spencer Strider are preparing to lead the '26 starting rotation. Sale is looking to prove he still has something left in the tank at 36 years old while Strider is trying to turn his career around. Spencer Schwellenbach is another hurler who will play a role in 2026. Reynaldo Lopez and Hurston Waldrep are other rotation candidates.
Even if Atlanta brings in another starter or two, both injuries and underperformance are an unfortunate part of sports. A rotation spot will likely open up at some point during the season. Fuentes will be pitching at Triple-A most likely, and he's a guy the Braves probably won't hesitate to promote.
While Fuentes is not the Braves' top pitching prospect, he is among the most MLB-ready starters in the Braves' minor league system. As a result, he will get the call ahead of the top prospects in 2026.
For Fuentes, 2026 could represent an opportunity to prove he has what it takes to contribute at the MLB level on a consistent basis. He is going to do everything he can to stay with the Braves if he does indeed receive a promotion at some point during the '26 campaign.
Didier Fuentes will be a starting pitcher for Braves fans to watch during the upcoming 2026 MLB season.