The Atlanta Braves were well-represented at the 2011 MLB Future's Game on Sunday afternoon. Julio Teheran and Arodys Vizcaino, who were both recently listed as top-20 prospect in Baseball America's most recent prospect rankings, pitched for the World Team and impressed scouts and fans everywhere.
Julio Teheran, who was ranked 4th, made the start and wowed the Chase Field crowd with a bevy of high-90's fastballs and his devastating changeup. He gave up a leadoff homer on a 3-2 pitch to Jason Kipnis, but retired the next three batters on twelve pitches, including a strikeout of top-prospect Bryce Harper.
The 20-year old out of Colombia had this to say regarding making the start for his team:
"(I was) very emotional about (making the start)." "It's a great honor, especially when you consider all the stars we have here in this clubhouse."
Despite not coming into the game until the seventh inning, Arodys Vizcaino required just six pitches to get through his inning. He struck out highly-regarded prospect Wil Myers on three pitches and got the next two to fly out harmlessly.
"I'm proud to be here representing the [Braves] team. It makes me feel I'm a little closer to the big leagues," said Vizcaino, whose pride was enhanced by being able to turn to his left and see fellow Atlanta rep Teheran. "It's a great thing to be here together. Having [Julio] here also makes me feel more comfortable."
These two pitchers, along with Randall Delgado, who was ranked 44th by Baseball America have a chance to do something special in Atlanta and join an already-stellar pitching staff. The Braves should feel very lucky to have these three pitchers in their system.