Former Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons built a reputation as one of the greatest defensive players of his generation, winning multiple Gold Glove Awards and routinely producing highlights that seemed impossible for other infielders to replicate.
Yet, despite a career that likely places him among the best defensive shortstops in baseball history, Simmons stepped away from the major leagues earlier than many expected. Now, several years after his final MLB season, the former MVP Award candidate has made it clear that he remains comfortable with that decision.
Speaking recently with The Athletic’s Sam Blum, Simmons reflected on his retirement and offered a concise four-word response when asked whether he had any second thoughts about abruptly ending his career with what appeared to be some prime seasons ahead.
“I don’t regret it,” Simmons said. “I needed a mental break.”
Former Atlanta Braves Superstar Speaks Out On Abruptly Ending His Career
The comments provide rare insight into the mindset of a player who quietly exited Major League Baseball despite remaining one of the sport’s most respected defenders. Simmons last appeared in the majors in 2022 before abruptly stepping away from the sport.
“Facing injuries, Simmons, at age 32, disappeared from baseball in what should have been the later part of his prime,” Blum noted.
Simmons’ defensive reputation had been established long before that point. When the Braves traded Simmons to the Los Angeles Angels following the 2015 season, he was established as one of the game’s elite fielders.
“Simmons is arguably the best defensive shortstop in baseball, offsetting his mediocre offensive skills,” ESPN News Services reported at the time. “He won the Gold Glove in 2013 and 2014, and was named the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year…”
Simmons’ career accomplishments extended well beyond those early awards. He finished his major league career with four Gold Gloves, a Platinum Glove Award earned in his rookie campaign with the Braves and more than 1,100 hits.
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Now, Simmons is donning spikes once again as he embarks on a career in the Mexican Baseball League, though he was clear about the chances of his returning to the majors.
“I’m happy with my career in the big leagues,” Simmons told Blum. “I’m not trying to get back.”
While many former stars spend years contemplating whether they left the game too early, Simmons’ comments suggest he has found peace with his decision. Rather than expressing frustration about opportunities missed, he emphasized the importance of stepping away when he felt it was necessary.
That perspective may surprise some Braves fans who believed he still had productive baseball ahead of him at the time that he ended his big-league career. But for Simmons, who notably struggled with mental health during his career, the decision appears to have been about more than performance or longevity.
