RADIO
Didier Fuentes Still Viewed as a Starter Long-Term, Worth Stashing in 2026?
In his return to the majors this year after allowing 20 earned runs on 23 hits (six homers) in 13 innings over his first four MLB starts in 2025, Atlanta Braves right-handed pitching prospect Didier Fuentes has gone 3-0 with a 2.66 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 24:8 K:BB in 20 1/3 innings over 13 appearances (only one start). He has been very reliable in a relief role for Atlanta so far in 2026, posting a 1.08 ERA, 17 strikeouts, a 29.6% strikeout rate, and a 0.72 WHIP. His strikeout rate is the fifth-highest among qualified rookies. Fuentes has been a key asset because of his ability to go multiple innings out of the 'pen -- he's already had four multi-inning appearances. The 20-year-old Colombian has pitched as a starter for most of his career, though. He has found a temporary home in the bullpen, but The Athletic's Jesus Cano writes that the Braves' long-term plan is to have Fuentes be a valuable member of their starting rotation. Fuentes is an absolute must-stash in dynasty/keeper leagues. But in redraft leagues, he's not a must-roster arm, especially since his return to a starting role may not come until 2027.
Source: The Athletic - Jesus Cano
Source: The Athletic - Jesus Cano
