Delgado, Teheran still figure into Braves' future
Both Delgado and Teheran were expected to be key pieces of the Braves' pitching staff this season. Delgado opened the season in the rotation, but was sent to Triple-A Gwinnett after amassing a 4.42 ERA and a 1.429 WHIP in 17 starts. Teheran started the year in Triple-A and was expected to pitch his way to the Major Leagues sometime this season. Instead, he struggled in Gwinnett and made just one spot start for the Braves.
Wren said Saturday that Delgado and Teheran are still important pieces of the Braves' plans.
"They're still guys that we value a lot," Wren said. "If we're going to have any discussions, it's going to be for a very big piece."
The Braves sent special assistant Dom Chiti to Gwinnett in August to help straighten out Teheran. Before Chiti arrived, Teheran had a 5.16 ERA in 96 innings and was striking out 6.19 batters per nine innings. In 35 innings in August, Teheran had a 4.89 ERA and averaged 7.97 strikeouts per nine innings.
"He got off track for about two-thirds of the Minor League season," Wren said. "In the month of August, he got back on track and was dynamic and outstanding again. We're looking forward to him."
Delgado and Teheran are expected to compete with right-hander Tommy Hanson for a spot in next year's rotation.
Delgado will turn 23 in February. Teheran will be 22 in January. Because of their age and raw abilities, both are still well regarded as prospects. Teheran is rated the Braves' No. 1 prospect and the No. 24 overall prospect according to MLB.com. They will both pitch in winter ball in the Dominican Republic.