Simmons expects to play Saturday after losing two teeth

Andrelton Simmons had two teeth pulled in an afternoon dental visit causing the Braves shortstop to miss Friday’s game.

Simmons, who just returned after missing six games with a left ankle sprain, said he feels much better after the procedure and expects to return to the lineup Saturday against the A’s. He said the teeth have been bothering him for sometime and he finally needed to get the problem addressed.

Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said Simmons got to Turner Field in time for the game but was in no condition to play considering the procedure.

Phil Gosselin started at shortstop and went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run. It was the first career home run for Gosselin. In the field, Gosselin recorded six assists on ground balls and three putouts.