Didier Fuentes' second career MLB start did not end well. The 20-year-old righty allowed six runs in just 3.1 innings. After the game, Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker wouldn't commit to him making a third start.
It wasn't surprising, then, that the Braves would make a roster move first thing in the morning the day after their loss against the New York Mets. However, instead of Fuentes going back to AAA, the Braves optioned lefty Austin Cox instead.
The #Braves today recalled RHP Michael Petersen to Atlanta after optioning LHP Austin Cox to Triple-A Gwinnett following yesterday’s game.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) June 26, 2025
Didier Fuentes staying on the Braves roster likely hints at upcoming plans
While the Braves technically don't need the fifth starter this time around, with a day off coming after their series in Philadelphia, Fuentes staying on the big league roster indicates the Braves would rather keep him on the roster than send him down and not be able to bring him back up for 15 days.
The Braves opting to bring up Michael Petersen from Gwinnett shows the Braves were in need of another bullpen arm after the club burned through Aaron Bummer and Austin Cox for multiple innings.
If the club didn't need intend on using Fuentes in his next turn, Atlanta could have easily sent the 20-year-old back to the minors. However, with Chris Sale's absence being indefinite, the Braves are likely trying to gauge whether the club needs to make a big move for an arm, or if Fuentes can actually anchor down the spot.
Cox pitched well in his three innings with the Braves, striking out five batters without allowing a walk in his two games. A Juan Soto homer ended up being his only blemish.
This will be Michael Petersen's fourth time up with the big league club this season, with his last appearance coming at the end of May in Philadelphia. Petersen has only pitched in two games, going three innings and allowing two runs. The tall righty has a 3.27 ERA in 22 innings with the Stripers.
It would not be shocking if this is another short stint for Petersen, and with Fuentes surviving the roster move this morning, it appears the young prospect with stay on the big league roster, at least until his next start.