In the high-stakes world of Major League Baseball, some players are just waiting for their breakthrough moment – and for the Atlanta Braves, that player might be Daysbel Hernandez.

The Cuban reliever, who debuted in 2023 and struggled through a challenging 2025 season, is now being eyeballed by MLB experts as a potential breakout star for the upcoming year. Despite his previous inconsistencies, Hernandez carries an electrifying arsenal that has scouts and analysts buzzing with anticipation.

With an impressive four-seamer clocking an average of 97.7 mph and a slider averaging 89 mph, Hernandez represents the raw talent that could transform from potential to performance. MLB.com's Mark Bowman highlighted the young pitcher's promise, noting that while last year's results were frustrating, there's substantial reason to remain optimistic about his trajectory.

The Braves' recent offseason moves suggest they're building a robust and competitive team for 2026. Beyond Hernandez, the club has strategically reinforced its roster by signing key players like Robert Suarez, Raisel Iglesias, Joel Payamps, and Ian Hamilton. They've also added versatility with acquisitions like Ha-Seong Kim at shortstop and bringing in Mauricio Dubon and Mike Yastrzemski.

A critical factor in Hernandez's potential resurgence could be the arrival of new pitching coach Jeremy Hefner. Bowman believes Hefner might be the catalyst to help Hernandez harness his impressive pitching weapons and overcome his previous control challenges. For a young pitcher with such raw talent, targeted coaching could be the difference between potential and breakthrough.

As the Braves prepare for the 2026 season under new manager Walt Weiss, fans have plenty of reasons to be excited. Daysbel Hernandez represents just one of many storylines that could define the team's upcoming campaign – a testament to the dynamic and unpredictable nature of professional baseball.