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Nick Markakis Appreciation Thread


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There aren't a whole lot of players who can say they went 2, 4, and 6 wins in their age 22, 23, and 24 seasons. I was sure he was well on his way to a long career as a big star. I'm sure I started a thread where I said after that first season or two that he had a 1-in-3 chance at Cooperstown. Didn't quite work out that way. But he was still a very solid player for a good, long while. Never complained, went out on the field every single day that he was physically able to. But unfortunately sports are not kind to players who peak early. A very vocal minority cannot get over someone who doesn't live up to expectations, even if the reality is a pretty good player. I wish Nick well in Atlanta, he'll be closer to his home. It'll be strange.

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I always enjoyed watching him go about his business the right way. He was a great player on some absolutely terrible teams for a few years. I'm glad he finally got the chance to play on a few winning teams in Baltimore (and in the postseason).

Good luck in Atlanta Nick. You will be missed.

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Nick was one of my favorite Orioles the first time I saw him play. I liked the way he carried himself. He seemed confident in his abilities, and always looked to me like he was taking notes in his head about game situations. He was a glimmering light during some dark times of O's baseball. He was a great teammate and quiet leader when the team finally put it together and became a contender.

Though his production may have fallen off the past few years, I never had the feeling that he was going through the motions. I never saw him give less than 100%, even though his 100% may have faded a bit. To me, he was, is, and always will be an Oriole. He can put on a different uniform, but, I'll always seem him in black and orange.

Good luck, Nick. Wishing you nothing but the best in Atlanta.

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Save the dates: July 27-29.

The Braves come to Camden Yards, and provided he's healthy, Nick Markakis comes back home. He deserves a raucous standing ovation when he comes to bat.

And Birdland can exercise his constitutional right to stand up and try to start a "Matt Murton is still better than you... clap clap clap clap clap..." chant.

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At risk of correction by stat nerd, isn't Mike Greenwell about the best comparison that can be made to Markakis? Both peaked early, seemingly had similar production/attitudes toward the game, won gold gloves despite not being speedsters, etc.

fwiw, for the longest time I felt Markakis would have an average career but would put together one great, batting title challenging year where everything would drop in for him. I really hope it's in Atlanta but if it happens I still don't second guess DD.

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At risk of correction by stat nerd, isn't Mike Greenwell about the best comparison that can be made to Markakis? Both peaked early, seemingly had similar production/attitudes toward the game, won gold gloves despite not being speedsters, etc.

fwiw, for the longest time I felt Markakis would have an average career but would put together one great, batting title challenging year where everything would drop in for him. I really hope it's in Atlanta but if it happens I still don't second guess DD.

I think Greenwell is a better comp than Orsulak. Or at least it feels better to me.

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I loved rooting for Nick because of his stoic personality. He always seemed to be saying "just leave me alone and let me play ball", and he really seemed to love the competition. Never gave away an at-bat and showed true professionalism on some crappy teams. I think his understated leadership coupled with Jones' vocal leadership is a big part of why 2012-14 has happened.

Thank you, Nick the Stick.

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Honeybear.

Miguel Tejada calling him "Markaki" in that "I love playing with this guy" tone of voice.

His spot in the outfielder triple hop thing after a win.

osfunbunch.gif

I'll never forgive Sabathia.

Very touching. Thank you for this whole post. Honeybear.

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