Atlanta Braves Outfielder Nick Markakis and Other Necks

Mar 2, 2015; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder

(22) pose for photo day at Wide World of Sports. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Of the very many moves the Braves have made since my last post here at Tomahawk Take, perhaps the most puzzling was the 4 year commitment to free agent outfielder Nick Markakis. Markakis, 31, was a strange addition given the Braves’ “soft rebuild” mode, if you want to call it that. But soon after the ink was dry, another strange detail was leaked. The man needed neck surgery.

Markakis’ neck pain reportedly began in March 2013, also known as the moment his play began to tank. The Orioles knew this, and respectfully did not pursue him as aggressively as Atlanta. Markakis underwent the neck fusion surgery to repair his herniated disk on December 17^th, or a little under 3 months ago. At the time, he was expected to be ready to start the season, after a delayed start to Spring Training. Now his availability for Opening Day is in question by many.

But even if Markakis is able to make the lineup in Miami on April 6^th, just how serious was that neck problem? Is it likely to make a swift recovery from such a sensitive surgery? We’ll take a look at some recent notable players to undergo this surgery and how it played out for them. Weirdly enough, 2015 seems to be the year for recovering from neck surgery, as both Mets closer Bobby Parnell and Rangers 1B/DH Prince Fielder are currently on the mend as well, although both players had their surgeries during the 2014 regular season.

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