Braves vs. Rockies Preview: Julio Teheran vs. Tyler Matzek

Tyler Matzek’s 19 strikeouts are tied for the third-most in the PCL through his three starts. (Jason Wise/MLB.com)

The Colorado Rockies have had a disastrous start to start to June, compiling a record of 1-8 with their one win resulting in a walk-off. Colorado looks to bounce back with a new face on the found.

Pitching Matchup:

ATL: Julio Teheran (6-3, 1.89 ERA)
COL: Tyler Matzek (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Tyler Matzek will make his Major League debut on the hill as Colorado is now the first team since 1986 to trot out three starting pitchers who are making their debut in a span of six days. Matzek has struggled with command in his past but has done well of late. The southpaw was 5-4 this season in 12 starts with the Colorado Springs Sky Sox with an ERA of 4.05. Matzek was an 11th overall selection in the 2009 MLB Amateur Draft by the Colorado Rockies.

Julio Teheran will counter the southpaw for the Atlanta Braves. Teheran has been outstanding thus far, putting his name into Cy Young consideration. On May 25th against the Rockies, Teheran was excellent. He surrendered just four hits through six innings while striking out seven batters. In his most recent start against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he gave up just two runs on five hits through seven strong innings.

Rockies Lineup:

1: Charlie Blackmon – RF
2: Josh Rutledge – 2B
3: Troy Tulowitzki – SS
4: Justin Morneau – 1B
5: Drew Stubbs – CF
6: Corey Dickerson – LF
7: Michael McKenry – C
8: DJ LeMahieu – 2B
9: Tyler Matzek – P

Game Notes:

• Justin Morneau is 3-for-7 lifetime vs. Julio Teheran.
• Charlie Blackmon is 2-for-5 lifetime vs. Julio Teheran with a 2B.
• Rockies have dropped 11 out of their last 12.

First-pitch between the Atlanta Braves and Colorado Rockies is scheduled for 8:40 PM ET, 6:40 PM MT.