Julio Teheran to pitch in World Baseball Classic

While most attention this week is rightfully on the Winter Meetings, friend of the program Kevin McAlpin, with 680 The Fan, spread the news that Braves righty Julio Teheran would participate in next year’s World Baseball Classic:

Participating in the World Baseball Classic is always a polarizing topic among fans, as many are justifiably concerned that one of their star players could be injured in the tournament. While Teheran has proven himself to be a durable starter over the years (he has thrown at least 131 innings every year dating back to 2011), he is still a pitcher and there’s always the risk of injury there.

At the same time, the World Baseball Classic gives player a chance to represent their native countries, and that is something that should not be taken for granted or downplayed.

Teheran was the only Atlanta player on a list of 30 players confirmed by the World Baseball Classic today, although former Atlanta shortstop Andrelton Simmons will once again compete for the Netherlands. Teheran will be joined by White Sox lefty Jose Quintana to make a formidable 1-2 punch in the Colombian rotation.

While Teheran is the only Brave confirmed to be participating in the WBC at this point, Freddie Freeman’s name has been rumored with the Canadian team in recent days as the California native’s parents are both Canadian.

The WBC kicks off on March 6, with games being played in Mexico, Japan, South Korea, San Diego and Los Angeles. You can find more information on the WBC website.