Multiple reports indicate that Atlanta Braves outfielder Nick Markakis has decided not to play in the upcoming season. According to David O’Brien from The Athletic, the decision from Markakis stems from a conversation that the veteran had with teammate Freddie Freeman.
On Saturday, it was reported that Freeman tested positive for COVID-19 and was experiencing symptoms from the virus. O’Brien states that the discussion between the two veterans “open(ed) the eyes” of Markakis. The Braves beat writer also notes the severity of Freeman’s voice and the impact of having no fans as reasons that factor into the decision:
Markakis said talking to #Braves' Freeman on the phone, hearing how sick he sounded, made Markakis "open his eyes" and think about it. Has three kids. Also said said "biggest thing is we play this game for the fans" and to not have them part of that "is tough."
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) July 6, 2020
Markakis, a Georgia native, came to the Braves in 2015 after playing nine years with the Baltimore Orioles. He signed a 4-year deal worth around $44 million. In the offseason before 2019, he signed a team-friendly contract to stay with the Braves. The $4 million, one-year deal included a $6 million option for 2020. Atlanta declined that option before ultimately signing the outfielder for the same amount as in 2019. At the time of the latest signing, Markakis cited family as a reason to stay in the Atlanta area versus pursuing more money elsewhere.The 14-year veteran is now opting to relinquish his craft and potential earnings for the same virtue.
Markakis currently sits at fourth place on the active hits list with 2,355. In 2018, he became an All-Star for the first time. In his 13th season, Markakis hit .297 while driving in 93 RBI. His performance earned him an All-Star appearance and hardware. The veteran was awarded his first-ever Silver Slugger Award and third-career Gold Glove.
The news today marks the second Brave to opt-out of the 2020 season. Over the weekend, reports surfaced that pitcher Felix Hernandez made the same decision. Hernandez signed a minor league contract with Atlanta during the offseason, with hopes of working into the big league rotation.
Markakis and Hernandez become part of a developing trend that seems to be surfacing throughout MLB. Other veterans such as Ryan Zimmerman and David Price top the list of notable players to opt out of playing baseball in 2020. The youngest member of the bunch, includes Washington Nationals pitcher, Joe Ross. The 27-year-old is the only player under 30 to announce opting out for a season due to coronavirus concerns, so far.
