Twins Sign Free Agent SS Andrelton Simmons

Well, we were all waiting for something to happen and many even worried nothing would, after Marcus Semien was signed by the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this afternoon. But alas, the Minnesota Twins have finally made their move at shortstop, signing 4X Gold Glove winner, Andrelton Simmons.

Andrelton Simmons will be the Twins' starting shortstop, with Jorge Polanco moving to second base and Luis Arraez still expected to get plenty of at-bats in a super-utility role. But Simmons and Byron Buxton up the middle? Twins pitchers should enjoy that defense this season.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 27, 2021

Simmons is a plus offensive player and probably the best defensive shortstop in baseball. This is a great signing for the Twins and I love the defensive side of it, given how bad Minnesota was in that department last season.

I thought the additional information, regarding Polanco’s move to 2nd base, was interesting. I can’t imagine they want to keep Arraez’ bat out of the lineup for very many games. It seems even less likely, at this point, that Nelson Cruz comes back. Instead, I expect Minnesota to rely on a bevy of good sticks already on the roster.

One-year deal

It shouldn’t surprise you that Simmons only signed for one year. The Twins hope to have their shortstop of the future, Royce Lewis, ready for the 2022 season and Simmons will want to make more money in next year’s free agency class, when there are less unknowns and more owners willing to spend.

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan