Braves Call Up Their Youngest Player In 56 Years

Braves Promote Didier Fuentes

This move is historic because of Fuentes’ young age. David O’Brien of The Athletic points out that at 20 years and three days, the Colombian native will be the third-youngest player in Atlanta Braves history , and the youngest since Mike McQueen debuted at 19 years and 33 days in 1969. Additionally, he will be the youngest starting pitcher in MLB since Julio Urias was 19 years and 362 days in 2016. Fuentes will also be the youngest active player in all of MLB on Friday.

Despite the exceptional strikeout-to-walk numbers, the rest of Fuentes’ season stats look shaky. He carries an 0-7 record with a 4.81 ERA and 1.12 WHIP in nine starts across three minor league levels, mostly Double-A. However, Fuentes has shot through the minors since signing as a 17-year-old international free agent. He also made a strong impression in the Spring Breakout Game back in March, fanning seven Tigers in three innings of work.

Future difference maker

Fuentes has a smaller stature at 6’0 “and 170 lbs, but above-average athleticism and plenty of time to grow into his frame. His fastball typically sits in the mid-nineties, but he can gas it up to 98-100 on occasion. He relies heavily on the fastball and complements it with a slider and splitter. Scouts have pointed out Fuentes’ advanced feel for his arsenal and impressive command for such a young professional, which no doubt has the Braves excited to see what he can do on the biggest stage.