Angels place Andrelton Simmons on injured list with Grade 3 ankle sprain

Angels shortstop Andrelton Simmons has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a grade three left ankle sprain, per a team announcement on Tuesday:

Simmons suffered the injury colliding with Twins reliever Taylor Rogers while trying to beat out a ground ball at first base on Monday night.

Simmons, 29, has once again been one of the most valuable shortstops in the American League this season, posting a 1.2 bWAR with a .298/.323/.415 slash line, three homers, and five steals. The four-time Gold Glover has also posted four defensive runs saved at shortstop. His loss is undoubtedly a major setback for the Angels, who are trying to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2014 and are currently treading water while sitting at 22-25, good for fourth place in a competitive AL West.

Though the team hasn’t released a specific timetable for Simmons’ recovery, a grade three ankle sprain generally costs a player 2-3 months. Prospect Luis Rengifo, who was recalled to fill Simmons’ spot on the roster, is likely to get most of the starts in his absence. Zack Cozart, who has gotten off to a dreadful start and currently owns a .129/.181/.153 slash line, could also be an option at short with Simmons on the shelf.