Braves' Cuban reliever named potential 'breakout candidate' for 2026

Jared Bloom

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Braves' Cuban reliever named potential 'breakout candidate' for 2026 image

After a disappointing 2025 season, the Atlanta Braves have been aggressive so far this offseason. They have made plenty of deals to help fill holes and potentially put a better product on the field for the 2026 season. 

They shored up their bullpen by signing Robert Suarez, Raisel Iglesias, Joel Payamps, and Ian Hamilton. They also signed Ha-Seong Kim to fill the hole at shortstop, while acquiring both Mauricio Dubon and Mike Yastrzemski. 

You also cannot forget about the managerial change the club made, going with Walt Weiss. If you are an Atlanta fan, you should have some excitement going into the new season. 

MORE: Braves No. 13 prospect predicted to have a massive year in 2026

Braves' Cuban reliever named potential 'breakout candidate' for 2026

It is not just the new faces that should have the fans excited. Some players could be in store for a big season after some disappointment last year. 

One player that fans may want to pay attention to is Daysbel Hernandez. He is a Cuban reliever who made his debut in 2023, but pitched under expectations last season. 

MLB.com's Mark Bowman tags him as a potential breakout candidate for the 2026 season. 

"While last year's results were maddening, there's plenty of reason to still believe in this big Cuban hurler, who has a 97.7 mph average velo with his four-seamer and an 89 mph average with his slider. There's hope new Braves pitching coach Jeremy Hefner will help Hernandez properly utilize his impressive weapons."

Despite a big walk issue last season, Bowman believes Hernandez will come into the 2026 season more developed. He also has high hopes with Atlanta's new pitching coach, Jeremy Hefner. 

While some fans may not be too familiar with him now, that could surely change if he comes into the new season with a bit more control of his arsenal.

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Editorial Team