<
>
EXCLUSIVE CONTENT
Get ESPN+

Braves' return for Simmons fair, but not overwhelming

By acquiring Andrelton Simmons from the Braves, the Angels added the best defensive shortstop in baseball. Brett Davis/USA TODAY Sports

I'm a little surprised by the Andrelton Simmons deal. In a market that values defense so highly, with Simmons the best in the game at the most important position, Simmons seemed like a player that the Atlanta Braves would keep to build around unless they got an overwhelming offer for him. Instead, the Los Angeles Angels sent back a return that seems fair, rather than lopsided in Atlanta's favor, so it's a good baseball deal but not the kind of home run Simmons' many fans in Georgia were hoping to see.