Atlanta Braves vs. New York Mets preview: Teheran vs Wheeler

The Atlanta Braves (gasp) got back into the win column on the back of Alex Wood and a brief offensive outbreak on Wednesday night, and after an off day to quell any momentum (insert laughter here), the New York Mets arrive in Atlanta for a weekend set. In the opener, the Braves will send Julio Teheran to the mound, and he will be opposed by Zack Wheeler from New York. Here’s a look at what to expect.

The Pitching Match-up:

Julio Teheran has been tremendous this season, putting together a 2.89 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP in 209 innings of work. That is certainly “ace”-level production, especially from a 23-year-old, but in recent days, he hasn’t been quite as sharp. Teheran has allowed 12 runs (6 earned) over his last 20 innings, and while he hasn’t been credited with all of them, Julio has been unable to wiggle off the hook in tight spots. That is something to monitor, but usually, the Braves have a distinct advantage when he takes the mound.

The Mets will deploy Wheeler in his hometown of Atlanta (the young right-hander was born in Smyrna), and fortunately for the home team, Wheeler was bludgeoned in his last outing. The Nationals battered him for six earned runs across four innings, but in his defense, the 24-year-old has had a nice year, posting a 3.61 ERA over more than 174 innings. At this stage of his career, Wheeler can susceptible against patient approaches, and hopefully, that is what we will see from the Braves.

_____

Atlanta Braves vs. New York Mets preview: Julio Teheran vs. Zack Wheeler

By Brad Rowland | Sep 19, 2014