
Julio Teheran, RHP, ATL
Julio Teheran became a free agent last week after the Atlanta Braves declined to pick up his option for 2020.
Teheran, who will be 29 at the beginning of next season, pitched nine seasons for Atlanta. Since 2013, he has managed to start at least 30 games each season, while pitching a minimum of 170 innings. His durability is not a doubt.
The two-time All-Star would immensely strengthen the Rangers’ pitching rotation, which is a necessity if they want to be a winning ball club.
In 2019, the Texas Rangers only had four pitchers start at least 15 games. Mike Minor and Lance Lynn were the only two starters on the team to pitch 200 innings and start over 30 games. Both Lynn and Minor are going to be at the front of their rotation in 2020.
Teheran has reached the 200-inning milestone twice in his career and has been close to the last few seasons.
Adding Teheran to that rotation will add another proven start. Teheran has a career 3.67 ERA through 1,360 innings. In addition to his durability and effectiveness during the regular season, the right-hander has been to multiple playoffs and has October experience.
He is still young and could sign a three- or four-year deal, unless if he chooses to sign a one-year, “prove yourself” contract. The Texas Rangers would really benefit from adding a young, established pitcher to their rotation.
Teheran should not be the only pitcher they go after this Winter. They should look to add multiple starters.