Call to the pen
Fansided

Atlanta Braves: Nick Markakis ends underrated career

By David Hill

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 17: Nick Markakis #22 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after striking out against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the second inning in Game Six of the National League Championship Series at Globe Life Field on October 17, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 17: Nick Markakis #22 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after striking out against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the second inning in Game Six of the National League Championship Series at Globe Life Field on October 17, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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Nick Markakis was often overlooked throughout his career. The Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves outfielder was a solid player, but often overshadowed by other players on the roster. Yet, as those players came and went, Markakis remained, posting solid numbers in relative obscurity.

It has been a quiet offseason for Markakis. There had been few rumors about his future, especially as the Braves had seemed to move on. The reason became apparent on Friday, as he announced his retirement.

Atlanta Braves outfielder Nick Markakis calls it a career

In retrospect, this decision is not much of a surprise. Markakis had initially opted out of the 2020 season after Freddie Freeman had contracted COVID, only to return later in the season. He produced a solid enough .254/.312/.392 batting line with 15 doubles in his 141 plate appearances, but it was fair to wonder whether he had interest in returning beyond 2020.

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Markakis posted a solid .288/.357/.423 batting line over his 9321 plate appearances, hitting 189 homers and 514 doubles. He had an outside chance at reaching the 3000 hit club had he continued his career, as he retires with 2388 hits. Had the abbreviated season not taken place, he likely would have been over 2500 base knocks, leaving him the chance to chase history.

He also never really received the accolades he deserved. Markakis was only named to one All Star Game, joining the National League squad in 2018. He was a three time Gold Glove winner, and was named a Silver Slugger in 2018. For someone that had as solid a career as he did, he did not receive much recognition.

And yet, that was somewhat fitting. Markakis never courted the limelight, putting his career together in relative obscurity compared to other players that performed at a similar level. It is fitting that his retirement would also be announced somewhat quietly, almost an afterthought with the happenings of spring training.

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Atlanta Braves outfielder Nick Markakis has announced his retirement. His solid career has ended as quietly as it was played.

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