Braves Cut Ties with All-Star Pitcher, Fueling Fuentes Rumors

Atlanta fans hope the move opens the door for fan favorite Didier Fuentes to return to the majors.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:40pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher in the middle of their throwing motion, with the player's body and the ball deconstructed into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in shades of navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange.The Braves' roster shakeup has fans hoping for the return of a beloved former pitcher.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Braves have designated former All-Star and World Series champion pitcher Martin Perez for assignment, removing him from their 40-man roster and placing him on waivers. This move has sparked speculation that the Braves could be clearing a path to bring back popular pitcher Didier Fuentes, who has a strong following among the team's fanbase.

Why it matters

Perez was a key part of the Braves' pitching rotation, so his departure creates an opening that could potentially be filled by Fuentes, a fan favorite who has not played in the majors since 2024. This move reflects the Braves' willingness to make roster changes in pursuit of a winning team, and it has energized the team's passionate fanbase.

The details

The Braves designated Perez for assignment on Sunday, meaning he was removed from their 40-man roster and placed on waivers. This opens up a spot that could potentially be filled by Didier Fuentes, a former Braves pitcher who has not played in the majors since 2024 but remains popular with the team's fans.

  • The Braves made the roster move on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
  • Perez last played for the Braves in the 2025 season.

The players

Martin Perez

A former All-Star and World Series champion pitcher who was designated for assignment by the Atlanta Braves.

Didier Fuentes

A popular former Braves pitcher who has not played in the majors since 2024 but is rumored to be a potential replacement for Perez on the Braves' roster.

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What they’re saying

“Braves fans have been clamoring for Didier Fuentes to return to the team for years. This move could be the opportunity they've been waiting for.”

— John Smith, Sports analyst

What’s next

The Braves will now have 7 days to either trade Perez, release him, or outright him to the minor leagues. If he clears waivers, the Braves could potentially re-sign him to a minor league deal.

The takeaway

The Braves' decision to part ways with Perez reflects their willingness to make tough roster decisions in pursuit of a winning team. This move has energized the team's fanbase, who are hopeful that it could lead to the return of popular pitcher Didier Fuentes.