Atlanta Braves Top Ten Position Players of the Last Decade
By Kit Anderson
4. Andrelton Simmons Doesn’t Make This List on His Hitting Ability
Andrelton Simmons was an average hitter in his time with the Atlanta Braves. The shortstop worked counts and rarely struck out but lacked power or consistency.
His best season with Atlanta came in 2015 when he hit .265 getting on base at a .321 clip. Simmons was traded to the Angels and has since improved his offensive performance. While that has no effect on this ranking it is notable that the Braves could have Simmons at shortstop still.
Although, they would be without top pitcher Sean Newcomb who looks to be well on his way to becoming an ace. But back to Simmons, Andrelton was one of the best defensive players I have ever seen in Atlanta or anywhere else.
He saved runs making improbable plays and keeping balls in front of him that belonged in the outfield. His defensive wizardry was fun to watch and will forever be missed in Atlanta.
Simmons still plays with the Angels and is just as fun to watch although it would be better were he still wearing a tomahawk on his chest.