Los Angeles Angels wise to wait on extending Andrelton Simmons

There have yet to be any talks between the Los Angeles Angels and Andrelton Simmons regarding an extension. That may be for the best.

Andrelton Simmons can see what is coming with the Los Angeles Angels. Their greatest player in franchise history, Mike Trout, signed a long term extension. Shohei Ohtani has been even more than anyone expected since he set foot on a major league diamond. Jo Adell will be heading to the majors soon enough. The Angels, if they can find some pitching, have a chance to be an exciting team.

Simmons sees this. And, understandably, he wants to be a part of it. Last year, he had expressed his desire to remain a part of the Angels organization for the long term as well, to be a part of what the organization is building.

At this point, Simmons is still waiting for a response. Yes, the Angels have reportedly discussed an extension internally, but that has been the extent of those talks. Neither Simmons, nor his representatives, have heard anything regarding a long term commitment from the Angels.

This may prove to be the correct move. There is no question that he is a game changer with his defense, a perennial Gold Glove candidate who already ranks eighth all time with 109 runs saved at short. However, his offense has once again come into question.

Between 2017 and 2018, Simmons had become more than just a defensive presence. He produced a combined .285/.334/.419 batting line, with 25 homers and 29 steals. However, those gains with the bat disappeared last season, as he produced a disappointing .264/.309/.364 batting line, hitting seven homers and stealing ten bases.

While Simmons is likely to remain valuable due to his defense, the Angels have to wonder if he can once again be the hitter he was two years ago. If he can return to that level of production, then those extension discussions could be forthcoming. Otherwise, it may be in the Angels best interests to allow Simmons to test free agency, especially with the likes of Didi Gregorius and Marcus Semien also scheduled to be free agents at the end of the year.

Andrelton Simmons may want to remain with the Los Angeles Angels, but they need to see if he is the same player he was in 2017 and 2018. It is just the smart thing to do before making a long term commitment.