The Cubs designated Andrelton Simmons for project after activating the veteran infielder from the injured listing

The Chicago Cubs returned shortstop Andrelton Simmons from the injured listing on Saturday after which appointed him to duty. Simmons had not appeared in a recreation since July 10 due to a strained proper shoulder. The Cubs will now have seven days to put him on waivers or launch him.

Simmons, 32, signed a one-year, $4 million deal in March to offer the Cubs with veteran outfield depth. Shoulder irritation precipitated him to overlook the beginning of the season, nevertheless, and he was largely ineffective upon his return. Certainly, in 34 video games he hit .173/.244/.187 (24 OPS+) with one extra-base hit in 85 plate appearances. He noticed his first motion within the majors at a place apart from shortstop, showing in 18 video games as a second baseman. He made his first look as effectively, making one recreation towards the Cincinnati Reds in late Might as a part of a 20-5 loss.

Simmons was by no means identified for his offensive prowess, however his bat has hit new lows relationship again to final season. In 165 video games, he has posted a .216/.277/.261 slash line and a 52 OPS+. His common exit velocity has dipped into the low 80s over that span, suggesting he is now not capable of hit the ball with authority — or, at the very least, with authority relative to his requirements. of the previous.

Simmons is the second veteran participant the Cubs signed over the winter to be launched in current weeks, becoming a member of Jonathan Villar. He’s the third veteran standout to be given the pink slip since Main League Baseball’s commerce deadline handed Tuesday: Earlier within the week, the Boston Pink Sox launched outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr. whereas the Philadelphia Phillies did the identical with Didi Gregorius.

The Cubs, for his or her half, will proceed with a beginning center infield of shortstop Nico Hoerner and second baseman Nick Madrigal. The Cubs have additionally proven a willingness to offer rookie standout Christopher Morel the burn at each positions.