When the Angels traded for Andrelton Simmons from the Atlanta Braves in 2015, they were solidifying their shortstop position for the near future. Simmons has a great reputation for being one of the best defensive shortstops in the game, since he broke into the league with Atlanta in 2012.
The Angles sent the Braves two pitching prospects, Sean Newcomb, Chris Ellis and veteran shortstop Erick Aybar in return. Newcomb was the No. 19 prospect at the time, according to MLB.com and has broke through as a starting pitcher for the Braves.
Simmons, who has caught the league by storm with the flash of his glove, finally broke out offensively. He set career high’s in batting average (.292), RBIs (75) and On-Base Percentage (.337). He also, only struck out 44 times in 2018. He was one of the Angels top run producers and gave opposing pitchers a tough out.
He can be overshadowed in the Angels lineup, when hitting behind Mike Trout, Justin Upton and Albert Pujols. Although, his presence is something that helps bolster the bottom half of the lineup card and sets the tone for the guys hitting behind him.
Image courtesy of Gary A. Vasquez-USA Today Sports
Simmons took home his fourth Gold Glove award after the 2017-2018 season ended. Simmons is a dynamic defender with a hose for an arm. Simmons currently has more Gold Glove awards than any active shortstop. He’s chasing Ozzie Smith, who totaled 13 Gold Gloves throughout his playing career. Simmons, (29) is still just reaching his full potential at such a young age and should rack up more Gold Gloves throughout his playing career.
Simmons is trending in the right directing, as he’s improving offensively with more experience in the league. He will always be sought after as a premium defender due to his top-notch glove skills. He has another two years remaining on his current contract with the Angels, earning $13 million in 2019 and $15 million in 2020. The Angels will more than likely look to extend him, although it may be difficult as Mike Trout becomes a free agent the same offseason as Simmons.
(Photo Courtesy of Julio Aguilar/ Getty Images)
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