Fuentes Continues Strong Start in Braves Debut
A Promising Return for Didier Fuentes
After an impressive spring training, Didier Fuentes was given another opportunity to prove himself as a member of the Atlanta Braves’ pitching staff. In his season debut, he pitched four innings of one-run ball in relief, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out four batters. What made this performance even more impressive was that he allowed the bullpen to take a day off, which is particularly beneficial early in the season when only a couple of pitchers are needed to get through a game, especially in a losing effort.
Braves starting pitcher Grant Holmes praised Fuentes after the game, stating, “He’s got really good stuff. To be his age, really good composure from last year to this year. It’s like he’s two different pitchers, and I feel like he has a really bright future.”
Manager Walt Weiss explained that Fuentes is starting out in the bullpen because he’s not fully stretched out to be a starter. The plan is to use him in a way that gives the bullpen a break while he works toward a starter’s workload. This approach seems to be working well so far.
Fuentes began his season with two perfect innings, striking out three batters. He faced some challenges during his third inning of work but managed to limit the damage to just one run. He then bounced back with a scoreless inning to wrap up the game.
The third inning might have been more significant than the ones where he dominated hitters. Last season, things often spiraled out of control quickly. This time, however, Fuentes was able to work his way out of trouble, showing improved control and composure.
His fastball was primarily in the mid-90s, reaching as high as 97 mph. He relied heavily on the fastball but also mixed in his splitter and slider at a decent rate. The increased use of the splitter was a positive sign, indicating that he is making better use of his secondary pitches.
“Weiss said, ‘The fastball’s always been big, but the secondary stuff is where I think he’s really stepped it up, with a breaking ball and the splitter change.'”
Fuentes’ return to the majors can be described as encouraging. While it was just one outing and came in relief, it looks like it could be an effective way to ease him into the big leagues.
Fuentes didn’t start pitching during spring training until a couple of weeks in, but once he did, he made an immediate impact. Overall, he finished with a 0.66 ERA, a 0.22 WHIP, and 18 strikeouts over 13 2/3 innings. At one point, he retired 27 consecutive batters.
It would have been understandable if the Braves had started him in Triple-A after how last season went. It could have been seen as erring on the side of caution. However, they gave the hot hand another chance, and Fuentes returned the favor with his first truly strong performance in the majors.
The Braves will stay at home to start the workweek as they host the Athletics for a three-game series beginning on Monday. Bryce Elder will take the mound for the first pitch at 7:15 p.m.
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