How the Braves found Didier Fuentes and helped him become a postseason weapon

Atlanta Braves right-hander Didier Fuentes has emerged as a key postseason bullpen weapon after throwing 3 2/3 strong relief innings in a 3-2 NLDS Game 2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 21-year-old Colombian pitcher was originally discovered by Braves scout Orlando Covo as a 14-year-old shortstop in Tolú, Colombia, before signing with Atlanta for $75,000.

Fuentes transitioned to the bullpen after a challenging major-league debut in 2025, rebounding to finish the regular season with a 2.45 ERA over 73 1/3 innings. Supported by veteran teammates such as Raisel Iglesias and Carlos Carrasco, he stepped into high-leverage situations following an injury to set-up man Robert Suarez.