Julio Teheran had once been considered one of the top pitching prospects in the game. The former top 100 prospect had been expected to be an ace for the Atlanta Braves, and while he never reached those heights, he had settled in as a solid middle of the rotation piece. His ability to take the ball every fifth day made him the type of pitcher that teams wanted.
That changed this offseason. His struggles in 2020, coupled with injuries that sidelined him for all but one start, led to Teheran languishing in free agency. He eventually signed with the Staten Island FerryHawks back in April as he attempted to work his way back to the majors.
Former Atlanta Braves pitcher Julio Teheran finds new team
His time in the Atlantic League did not last long. After six strong outings, he has signed a new contract as he will reportedly join the Toros de Tijauna in the Mexican League.
Teheran certainly pitched well enough to earn this opportunity. He posted a 1.60 ERA and a 0.921 WHiP in his 33.2 innings, striking out 35 batters with six walks. That type of production is going to generate interest regardless of what league it is in.
The Mexican League is certainly going to be a step up in competition. It has become a place where former major leaguers go to rebuild their careers as it is beginning to serve in the same capacity as Nippon Professional Baseball of the Korean Baseball Organization. It may not necessarily be at the same level just yet, but the Mexican League can be that same stepping stone.
Teheran is certainly hoping that is the case. If he continues to pitch well in Mexico, he could easily get another chance in the majors. At 31 years old, he still has plenty of time to make his mark in the major leagues once more.
Former Atlanta Braves All Star Julio Teheran is heading to the Mexican League. If he finds success there, he could return to the majors in 2023.