Atlanta Braves: The legacy of Nick Markakis and defining statistics
By Seth Carter
The Atlanta Braves’ Nick Markakis has exercised his option to sit out the 2020 season. We take a look at his legacy as a Brave and some defining statistics from his career.
Atlanta Braves outfielder Nick Markakis has opted out of the 2020 season. This news came not long after we found out Freddie Freeman had tested positive for COVID-19. Markakis was excited to be back to work, but after speaking with Freeman and hearing how ill he was, he decided it was not worth the risk.
This definitely begs more questions about player safety, the likelihood a full season is completed, and if it even should be attempted. However, today we will focus on the legacy Markakis leaves behind, what’s next for him, and some incredible statistics that represent the player.
Atlanta Braves – The Legacy of Nick Markakis
The signing of Nick Markakis a lone bright spot in a cloud of darkness that had engulfed Braves’ country in 2015. After reaching great highs with 96 wins in 2013 on the backs of youngsters like Andrelton Simmons, Freddie Freeman, Julio Teheran, Craig Kimbrel, Kris Medlen, Justin Upton, and the rest of the guys, 2014 was a different story.
Medlen was second only to Clayton Kershaw in ERA over the previous year and a half. Hopes were high heading to camp that season. When Medlen blew out his arm during a spring training game, it was a terrible sign of things to come.
Medlen was ordered to go under the knife for Tommy John and Brandon Beachy wasn’t far behind him. Both players would have their second Tommy John surgery. Very little went right after the loss of the two young pitchers.