Braves to Send Down Top Prospect Despite Making Opening Day Roster

Injuries continue to plague Atlanta's pitching staff as Joey Wentz suffers setback.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 3:05am

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The Atlanta Braves have reportedly decided to send down top pitching prospect Didier Fuentes to Triple-A Gwinnett, despite him making the Opening Day roster, in order to have him work as a starter after an injury to another Braves pitcher, Joey Wentz.

Why it matters

The Braves have been plagued by injuries to their pitching staff over the past year, and this latest move with Fuentes highlights the challenges the team is facing in maintaining a healthy and effective rotation to start the 2026 season.

The details

According to reports, the plan is for Fuentes to initially serve as a long reliever for the Braves before being sent down to the minors to work as a starter. This comes after Wentz, another Braves pitching prospect, suffered an injury during Spring Training that will likely keep him out for the start of the season.

  • Fuentes made the Braves' Opening Day roster.
  • Wentz suffered an injury during Spring Training that will sideline him to start the 2026 season.

The players

Didier Fuentes

A top pitching prospect in the Braves' farm system who was set to make the Opening Day roster before being sent down to the minors.

Joey Wentz

Another Braves pitching prospect who suffered an injury during Spring Training that will keep him out to start the 2026 season.

Atlanta Braves

The Major League Baseball team based in Atlanta, Georgia that is dealing with injuries to its pitching staff.

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What’s next

The Braves will need to monitor Wentz's recovery and determine when he can rejoin the major league roster, while also evaluating Fuentes' performance in Triple-A to decide when he may be called back up to the big league club.

The takeaway

The Braves' pitching depth is being tested early in the 2026 season, as injuries continue to impact their rotation. The team's ability to develop and effectively utilize their top pitching prospects will be crucial in weathering these challenges.