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The Atlanta Braves entered the season with several question marks surrounding their pitching staff. However, that group has exceeded expectations and played a major role in the team’s success early on. Injuries initially cast a cloud over the Braves’ season as multiple key arms went down. Top prospect Didier Fuentes made the Opening Day roster, but it was clear he would eventually be sent back down to continue his development.
“he Braves’ plan is for Didier Fuentes to spend the first couple weeks as a long reliever for Atlanta and then go to Triple-A Gwinnett to work as a starter,” Braves reporter Mark Bowman posted.
Earlier in the week, Fuentes was a healthy scratch from his scheduled start in Gwinnett, raising questions about a potential call-up.
“Didier Fuentes was a healthy scratch for Triple-A Gwinnett today. By not starting him today, the Braves give themselves some flexibility as they go through this stretch of 10 straight games. Dodd isn’t eligible to return until April 28. Need optionable pieces available during this stretch. Plus, it wouldn’t hurt if Fuentes doesn’t start for Gwinnett until Friday. Extra rest this time of year means could prove beneficial in September and October,” Bowman wrote.
After a loss to the Washington Nationals on Tuesday night, manager Walt Weiss confirmed that Fuentes is being discussed as a potential bullpen option.
“Didier Fuentes will be a top option to bring up to help the bullpen over the next few days. Asked directly about Fuentes, Weiss said he’d be part of the discussion,” Bowman reported.
While this may not be the starting role the Braves originally envisioned, the team is simply trying to manage its pitching depth. Fuentes has always had electric stuff, with his development largely hinging on command.
During Spring Training, Fuentes showed improved control and limited walks, which is an encouraging sign. If that continues, he may not return to Gwinnett anytime soon, as the Braves remain high on his potential.
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