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Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons could be with a new team before the start of the 2016 season but it’s going to cost teams a lot if they want to acquire the infielder. The New York Mets were the first team to realize that when they checked the availability of the Braves’ star, according to The New York Post.
The Braves reportedly said they would take Matt Harvey or Jacob deGrom in exchange for Simmons. The Mets are going to give up either aces in exchange for the 26-year-old shortstop. It shows how high the Braves are on him. He’s currently under contract through 2020 for $53 million. He will receive a $2 million or more raise per season until the end of the contract.
#Mets inquired on Simmons this morn and told ask price is Harvey or deGrom, so no way. Also shows how #Braves initially valuing Simmons
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) November 12, 2015
Simmons is a two-time Gold Glover. He finished the season with a .265 BA along with 4 HR, 44 RBI and 5 SB over 147 games. He’s not going to hit in the middle of a lineup but his defense is second to none in the National League. Defense is an area that hurt the Mets in the World Series a few times against the Kansas City Royals. They’re not going to give up Matt Harvey and Jacob deGrom for a great defensive shortstop.
There’s still a chance that Atlanta will move Simmons. One NL West team has been in talks with the Braves, according to ESPN.com. The Angels are also interested as well as any team in need of a shortstop. There’s no telling where Simmons is going to be at the start of the 2016 season.
