Every time it seems the Atlanta Braves season simply can't sink any lower, the franchise finds a way. Whether it is a key injury or a heartbreaking loss, the Braves have invented ways to continue to haunt their fan base. The latest iteration of this trend was allowing rookie pitcher Didier Fuentes to take the mound yet again despite the recent results. It was beyond clear that the twenty-year-old starter wasn't ready to take the leap. Still, the prospect was left on the mound to give up 8 earned runs while managing to only make it through 1.0 inning of work.
It served as a stark reminder of a front office and franchise that has simply lost its way. It is difficult to remember a time when the Braves would so willingly make an obvious mistake. A prospect who has promise continually thrown to the wolves, watching his confidence take a hit. It is an awful decision the Braves should've already remedied before the latest setback. It doesn't come as a surprise that Atlanta has continued to fumble the obvious.
The Braves Have Lost Their Way
Looking back at the last three years it is easy to see how the team has slowly devolved into its current state. A lack of importance on depth and an inability to retain key pieces have all led to this moment. One that has put Atlanta's future very much into question and even has pundits suggesting the team trade its star player. While this is an awful idea it helps illustrate just how far the Braves have fallen in a very short time.
It was only the 2021 season that Atlanta became World Series champions and appeared to be poised to be contenders for the next decade. Four years later, you have an organization throwing a talented kid into a moment he isn't ready for due to a lack of care and other options. It serves as a reminder of just how fleeting success can be and why Altanta fans are so irate with the front office and ownership groups.
Fuentes isn't to blame for the situation or for failing in a moment he clearly wasn't ready for. Atlanta's decision-makers continue to push all the wrong buttons and infuriate a fan base that is beyond ready to see meaningful changes made to a franchise that has fumbled away what was a perfect World Series window.
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