The Atlanta Braves and the Washington Nationals have developed a solid rivalry over the past few seasons as the two teams have been in contention for the National League East with improved rosters. Both teams have upped their batting lineup and signed strong pitching prospects that have created fun matchups over the years. 2014 should be no different as the two teams get their first taste of action against one another spring training.
The Braves will send Julio Tehran to the mound, a young star they have invested a lot in for the future. The pitcher capitalized off a solid 2013 season when he recorded a 3.20 ERA in 30 games played. The Braves see a lot of promise in him and inked him to a new six-year deal worth $32,4 million. Teheran is predicted to be the Braves' No. 3 starter behind Kris Medlen and Mike Minor. At 23, he has plenty of room to develop into a top star in the league.
Teheran was not the only one to sign a big deal for the Braves. Freddie Freeman was inked to a franchise record deal worth $135 million over eight years. Craig Kimbrel signed a four-year, $42 million while Anrelton Simmons signed a six year deal after winning a Gold Glove last year. All have big expectations to fill in 2014.
The Washington Nations are sending Jordan Zimmermann to the mound for his next spring start. The team is off to a strong start this spring at the plate. The team is coming off a Wednesday game that saw the Nationals score seven runs in the bottom of the eighth inning while knocking out four home runs in the process. Pitcher Gio Gonzalez picked up where he left off last season, throwing two shutout innings.
Spring training games should not offer too much excitement, but expect these two teams to be building to something special this season.