The Atlanta Braves made a long-overdue move this week, demoting rookie starter Didier Fuentes and calling up Nathan Wiles. This move is less about who joins the Major League roster and more about Atlanta making a move the team should've decided on two weeks ago. The entire fan base could see the team made an awful decision, allowing Fuentes to continue to start when it was clear the moment was too big. There was nothing to be gained by continuing to start the young pitcher, and a high risk of damaging his development by having him take so much punishment at the next level.
Still, the Braves wouldn't budge from an obvious mistake they continued to make worse. Now, Fuentes is being demoted and has every reason to question his ability and deal with confidence concerns as he continues to develop. It is so far away from a well-run organization that fans are used to watching. The decision cannot be defended and has been pointed out not only by fans but respected pundits.
The Braves Give Nathan Wiles a Second-Chance
The smaller story in this demotion is the return of Wiles, who has an awful 2025 debut for the Braves. His 27.00 ERA serves as evidence of a failed short stint on Atlanta's roster. Still, this was the right decision for the Braves, who simply have no other options at the position. Look at Atlanta's minor league system and find a healthy arm who can eat innings without having their development damaged.
It speaks both to a minor league system that isn't what it once was as well as a group of young pitchers who need more time in the lower levels. All of this adds up to Wiles getting a chance to work from the back of Atlanta's pen.
Given the lack of other options, it makes sense while the Braves continue to attempt to decide how to rebuild the rotation. With Spencer Schwellenbach, Chris Sale, AJ Smith-Shawver, and Reynaldo Lopez all on the injured list, it isn't an easy task. Still, the Braves did the right thing even if it was just a bit too late.