Braves should start Simmons over Pastornicky at shortstop

The battle for the next Atlanta Braves starting shortstop is currently being waged in spring training by two 22-year-old rookies, projected starter Tyler Pastornicky and the oncoming Andrelton Simmons.

At the beginning of spring training, it looked as if the starting job at shortstop, recently vacated by Alex Gonzalez, who signed a free-agent deal with the Milwaukee Brewers, belonged to heralded minor leaguer Tyler Pastornicky. However, the recent emergence of fellow rookie shortstop Andrelton Simmons has shaken up the outlook for the 2012 Braves starting lineup.

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Braves Should Start Simmons Over Pastornicky at Shortstop

Braves refuse Alex Gonzalez arbitration, may look for new shortstop

The Atlanta Braves have declined to offer salary arbitration to free agent shortstop Alex Gonzalez, gambling that they can find a one-year replacement for him until their minor league solution is ready. Gonzalez, a veteran infielder, is coming off a stellar defensive year but one in which he hit just .241. He does not figure into the Braves long term plans.

Atlanta was seeking to avoid paying $3 million or more to Gonzalez simply to serve as a one-season bridge to upcoming prospect Tyler Pastornicky. Pastornicky will likely be ready to take over at shortstop for the Braves after next year.

Braves decline arbitration with Alex Gonzalez

Braves’ Alex Gonzalez proves defense still matters

If you think a player's ability to hit for a high average or with a lot of power is far more important than their ability to play defense, you should be watching Alex Gonzales play shortstop for the Braves this year.

Braves’ Alex Gonzalez proves defense still matters