Andrelton Simmons remains out of lineup against Washington Nationals
By Brad Rowland
Apr 8, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons (19) is introduced before the game against the New York Mets at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
Update: Simmons reportedly took batting practice and will be available to pinch hit on Friday night.
Andrelton Simmons says his jammed right wrist is feeling better today. Took swings in cage. Is available to pinch hit. #Braves
— Kevin McAlpin (@KevinMcAlpin) April 11, 2014
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Just moments before the Atlanta Braves took on the New York Mets on Thursday, shortstop Andrelton Simmons was scratched from the lineup as a result of a jammed shoulder. Unfortunately for the Braves, the defensive wizard will remain in the dugout on Friday as the team welcomes the Washington Nationals to town.
Tonight's lineup vs. WSH (7:35, FSS/680AM/BRN): Heyward 9 BUpton 8 Freeman 3 Johnson 5 JUpton 7 Uggla 4 Gattis 2 Pena 6 Teheran 1
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) April 11, 2014
As most people know, the 24-year-old Simmons is the best defensive shortstop (and arguably, player) in baseball after putting up a season with 41 defensive runs saved (DRS) in addition to winning the Platinum Glove in 2013, and obviously, it’s a huge plus when he’s on the field. Ramiro Pena filled in admirably with a 1-for-4 effort at the plate and solid defense at short on Thursday, but Simmons provides another dimension altogether, and it’s never good when he’s on the bench.
The jury is still out on the type of hitter that Simmons can be (ghastly .296 OBP but 17 home runs in 2013), but hopefully, this latest injury won’t be any sort of long-term setback for Andrelton. Either way, we should know more by the time the lineup is released on Saturday, but in the opener, it looks as if Ramiro Pena will be getting the nod for the second straight night.