ANGELS, BRAVES SWAP SHORTSTOPS
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim acquired shortstop Andrelton Simmons and catcher Jose Briceno from the Atlanta Braves for infielder Erick Aybar, pitchers Sean Newcomb and Chris Ellis, and cash.
What does it give the Los Angeles Angels
In Simmons, the Angels get one of the top defensive shortstops in Major League Baseball. Furthermore, Simmons is still only 26 years old with some untapped offensive upside. LA is looking to improve their infield defense, so Simmons should help. Briceno adds more catching depth for an Angels team that's a little thin in that area. Overall, the Angels gave up a lot but feel Simmons' glove is worth it.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
The Braves did very well here, adding a pair of quality pitching prospects in Newcomb and Ellis. They also receive Aybar, who will replace Simmons as Atlanta's starting shortstop in 2016 and provide a little more offense (while obviously surrendering some defense). The Braves also received a bit of cash to help pay Aybar's contract (which expires after next season). All told, this was a great deal for Atlanta.
Fantasy impact
Simmons may be more successful offensively in the American League, and the Angels could use his bat control (he rarely strikes out) near the top of the batting order. Therefore, his fantasy stock is on the rise. Aybar may only spend one season in Atlanta but his fantasy value should remain steady. Newcomb is a big talent who could reach the bigs more quickly now that he's on a younger team with fewer expectations for 2016. Ellis is another young pitcher to be placed squarely on the fantasy radar.
