How the Atlanta Braves trade Nick Markakis
By Fred Owens
Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles season did not go as planned. Instead of challenging to the end the O’s dropped off early and never really returned. On May 9 they led the AL East by half a game. They slipped to third a month later and finished the season in last place,18 games back.
According to Mark Polishuk’s offseason outlook, the Birds need lefty bats. They have payroll room – Polishuk estimates $39M – and no shortage of thunder in the current lineup. He also notes they aren’t inclined to sign a high dollar, long-term deal; they have enough of those.
Atlanta Braves
A homecoming seems to fit Markakis personally. Fans there loved him – many still do – and his family still lives there. You may recall he missed a game towards the end of the season to deal with a family issue in Baltimore.
The return of a fan favorite fits both their needs and pocketbook. The Braves return would be small but right field would be available for Acuna.
If Roger McDowell returns as their pitching coach, it might be possible to convince the Orioles to take Jim Johnson as well. The Braves would have to throw in $3m in cash for no better player return but Johnson’s departure would make fans happy and open the door for a younger arm. The O’s need bullpen help as well so everyone wins; right?