Atlanta Braves News: The Morning Chop 12/7

Atlanta Braves

Simmons’ sparkling defense nets GIBBY Award

Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note:  One thing Atlanta Braves fans don’t have to worry about is our shortstop position.  Andrelton Simmons has that locked down.  One of the best defensive shortstops in the game, Simmons adds another award to his trophy case.  

"Less than three full seasons into his Major League career, Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons has already compiled a collection of defensive honors that would make a veteran proud.Simmons added another honor to his portfolio, recognized as the Defensive Player of the Year when MLB.com’s Greatness in Baseball Yearly Awards (GIBBY) were announced live on MLB Network and MLB.com on Saturday night."

"Major League Baseball’s A-listers won 2014 GIBBY trophies based on votes by broadcasters, reporters, front-office personnel, MLB alumni, fans at MLB.com and the Society for American Baseball Research."

The Augusta Chronicle

Atlanta Braves enter winter meetings with major trade chips

Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note:  By now, we have completed reminiscing about the days we had Jason Heyward and we’re looking towards the future…right?  The Braves aren’t looking to “rebuild” that is not what John Hart is doing.  He is looking to put together the best quality team he feels can win ball games.  Pitching, contact hitters and guys who can be a “team”.  With Evan Gattis and Justin Upton on the trading block, Hart is looking to get the best return on investment he can with these guys.

"The Atlanta Braves are already waist deep in an organizational overhaul, yet a couple potential moves remain that could help shape the core of the next round of competitive Atlanta teams.After firing general manager Frank Wren and restructuring the scouting and development staffs at the end of the 2014 season, John Hart stepped in to pair with president John Schuerholz to change the direction of the organization. It’s only early December, but the foundation is already being built."

MLB Rumors

Minor Moves

Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note:  The Atlanta Braves front office felt that Pena was not part of “the Braves Way” of doing things and decided to let him walk.  Pena has spent the past two seasons with the Braves.  He had a very solid 2013 season but his number declined in 2014.

"Utility infielder Ramiro Pena has elected free agency after the Braves outrighted him off the 40 man roster. Pena owns a career .244/.288/.330 line over 610 plate appearances in parts of six seasons. Capable of playing shortstop, second, and third base, the 29-year-old offers plenty of flexibility. He’s spent his entire career with theYankees and Braves."

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