Washington Nationals: 5 To Watch For In Atlanta
By Ron Juckett
JULIO TEHERAN
With the luxury of having three potential aces on the Nationals staff, facing another loses something in translation.
Julio Teheran deserves better and when he faces Washington Wednesday, it is must-see television. At 26, he is as important to the Braves pitching staff as Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, Phil Niekro and Warren Spahn used to be. He is the unquestioned ace, a superstar in a bigger market.
In 19 innings this year, Teheran has yet to allow a home run. Also, he will be the first Braves starter to pitch twice at SunTrust Park. In the opener against the San Diego Padres last Friday night, he went six, fanned five, walked four, allowed five hits and two runs to earn his first win.
Not the line score of greatness but, with the added hoopla of the night, not a bad opening act. Against the Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates, he did not allow an earned run. But, the Braves dropped both games. The story of Teheran’s young career.
Given the collective experience of the rotation behind him, the pressure is off Teheran some to perform. He will not take the hill as often trying to snap a losing streak. The addition of Brandon Phillips to a decent Braves offense will give run support.
The days of Teheran being Atlanta’s secret are over.
Washington has had success against Teheran. In 14 starts, he is 3-3, but with an ERA of 4.04. In three starts last year, Washington beat him once forcing an ERA of 5.50.