Braves News: Andrelton Simmons retires, Matt Olson season review, and more

Atlanta Braves news and notes from Thursday

Former Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons announced his retirement on social media earlier this week. The 34-year-old hangs up his cleats after eleven major league seasons. He hasn’t appeared in the big leagues since July 2022.

Drafted by the Braves in 2010, Simmons stayed in the organization through the 2015 season before being dealt to the Los Angeles Angels. He won two Gold Glove Awards with the Braves and went on to win two more with the Halos.

Known for his defensive dominance, Simmons may be the best infielder of his era. He logged 1,206 career games at shortstop with a .981 fielding percentage.

However, injuries in 2016 and 2019 significantly cut his playing time and likely contributed to his abbreviated career. Nevertheless, Simmons had an incredible tenure and will be remembered by Braves Country for years to come.

More Braves News:

Our 2023 season in review series continues with Matt Olson and minor leaguer Hurston Waldrep.

Per the transaction tracker, the Braves signed third baseman Phillip Evans to a minor league contract on December 21.

MLB News:

The Toronto Blue Jays have officially announced their one-year, $10.5M deal with center fielder Kevin Kiermaier.

The Chicago White Sox have signed reliever Tim Hill to a one-year, $1.8M contract.

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco failed to appear for questioning Thursday morning amidst allegations of inappropriate relations with minors.

The Cincinnati Reds have re-signed reliever Buck Farmer to a one-year deal worth $2.25M. He is also subject to performance bonuses.