The Atlanta Braves got the lead early and never looked back. They downed the Detroit Tigers, 6-4. That was the first loss for the Tigers in the Grapefruit League. 

Julio Teheran allowed one run in two innings for the Braves. Over the past two years, he has gone 14-13 with a 2.89 ERA. He should be the opening day starting pitcher.

"Being the opening-day starter is a real honor, especially with the Braves," Teheran said. "It's early and I don't have everything going yet, but starting on opening day is a great honor."

Alfredo Simon started on the mound for the Tigers. It was his first game with the club after a three-way trade that sent him from the Cincinnati Reds to Detroit. He went 15-10 with a 3.44 ERA last season. However, against the Braves he did not give up a run over two innings. 

"I was just trying to loosen my arm," he said. "I just feel really comfortable with my cutter and two-seamer." Simon struck a just one hitter today. 

J.D. Martinez, who played a huge role last season, was the big story for the Tigers today. He went 3-f0r-3 in the loss and Dixon Machado hit a double to left field. However, regular MLB starter Ian Kinsler went 0-for-2 with a walk.

The bullpen struggles continued for Detroit as Alex Wilson gave up two runs (one earned) in the ninth inning to lose the game. Obviously, he was credited with the loss. 

Braves lefty Mike Minor felt discomfort in his shoulder and is out for the time being. There will be an update on him around Monday.

For the Tigers, Jose Iglesias, who is recovering from stress fractures in both knees, sat out against Atlanta. Tigers manager Brad Ausmus is looking to take it slow with their promising shortstop. 

Yoenis Cespedes sat out because of lower back tightness. He was suppose to start, but better safe than sorry. 

Bruce Rondon, who could end up as the closer, will pitch against hitters on Friday. He missed last season with Tommy John surgery. 

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Up next for the Braves: Alex Wood will start in Kissimmee against Jordan Zimmermann of the Washington Nationals.

Up next for the Tigers: David Price will make his spring debut in Port St. Lucie against Matt Harvey and the New York Mets.

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About the author
Evan Petzold
Evan Petzold is a Detroit-based journalist with expertise in covering the Tigers, Pistons, and Red Wings. A member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America (IBWAA) and Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association (DBSA), he brings a unique skill set in reporting and broadcasting to the table.