Several teams have begun to get rid of disappointing players now that the MLB Trade Deadline has passed. Didi Gregorius and Jackie Bradley Jr. have been let go by their respective teams after they were unable to be moved for anything at all. The Chicago Cubs have now joined that list.
According to Tony Andracki of the Marquee Sports Network, Andrelton Simmons has become the latest player to potentially enter the market as the Cubs have designated him for assignment.
Chicago Cubs cut bait with Andrelton Simmons
The Cubs clearly knew that they needed help in the infield heading into the season. Although they had been linked to Carlos Correa, who was interested in heading to Chicago as well, they bypassed that option to sign Simmons to a one year deal worth $4 million.
Suffice to say that had not worked out as planned. He had been plagued by injuries this season, limiting him to just 85 plate appearances. Simmons did not do much with that opportunity, producing a disappointing .173/.244/.187 batting line with a double.
It is possible that his ongoing shoulder issues were the cause of that disappointing performance. However, Simmons had also struggled in 2021, although his 58 OPS+ was much better than his performance this season. It is possible that his already questionable offensive contributions have fallen off of a cliff that they will not return from.
Chances are, Simmons will get another chance next year. His injured shoulder can be pointed to for his issues with the bat and his glove has still been solid at short. With his defensive flexibility extending to second base as well this year, he could be worth a relatively inexpensive contract during the 2022-23 offseason.
The Chicago Cubs are moving on from Andrelton Simmons after an injury plagued year. They will be looking for a shortstop again during the offseason.