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Janish has proven to be key addition for Braves
SAN DIEGO – When rookie shortstop sensation Andrelton Simmons broke a bone in his throwing hand in the last game before the All-Star break, the Braves figured to take a significant step back defensively until he returned.
Who would’ve thought a trade for a 29-year-old Triple-A shortstop could so effectively fill the defensive void? But it did.
Paul Janish had one error in 188 defensive chances for Atlanta before Monday and led National League shortstops with a .995 fielding percentage since the All-Star break. Janish has started 42 of 43 games since coming over from the Reds organization in a July 14 trade for minor league pitcher Todd Redmond.
“Our scouts did a terrific job getting Yonny,” Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said. “If we didn’t have him, I just can’t see another guy out there filling the position the way he’s filled it for us. Not without giving up big-time people. We gave up a young pitcher. [Redmond] is a journeyman right-hander and we give him up for this guy – man, oh man, that’s a pretty good trade.”
Andrelton Simmons is expected to be activated off the DL the second week of September.
Whether or not Janish reverts to a backup role as soon as Simmons returns, Gonzalez said he’s “absolutely” done enough to warrant consideration for a Braves utility job next season. Janish played primarily shortstop for nine seasons in the Reds organization, but has experience at second and third base.
I gotta think Simmons will taking over the starting role, unless the effects of his injury linger. But it sounds like the Braves want to keep Janish on the roster - not just this year, but next.
There's also this article, from MLB.com:
Reliable Janish a valuable asset for Braves
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Braves did not necessarily create much of a stir July 14 when they acquired Paul Janish from the Reds to serve as their starting shortstop while Andrelton Simmons was sidelined with a fractured right pinkie finger.
But Janish has made the most of his opportunity and positioned himself to begin the 2013 season as one of Atlanta's backup infielders. He has proven to be a skilled defensive asset and also provided some offensive contributions that the Braves were not expecting.
It has some quotes from Janish.
Janish hit a triple on Sunday, and reached on an error tonight, but hasn't hit much otherwise. (The Braves as a whole seem to be in a bit of a slump.)
I'd like to see Janish show more patience at the plate. His walk rate has fallen off lately.
Labels: Paul Janish
