Braves trade shortstop Andrelton Simmons to Angels

The Braves have traded shortstop Andrelton Simmons to the Angels.

The Atlanta Braves have traded shortstop Andrelton Simmons to the Los Angeles Angels, the Braves announced on Thursday. 

The Angels will send shortstop Erick Aybar, minor-league pitcher Chris Ellis and cash to Atlanta. In return, Los Angeles will also acquire catcher Jose Briceno. 

Rumors that Simmons could be on the move began swirling Wednesday night, with the Braves reportedly shopping him to multiple teams. 

Simmons, widely regarded as the best defensive shortstop in the majors, is under contract through the 2020 season, when he will be 30 years old. 

The deal is the first trade made by new Angels general manager Billy Eppler, previously the assistant GM with the Yankees.

- Dan Gartland