Atlanta Braves: Projections for Nick Markakis in 2019

What SHOULD We Expect from Markakis?

Atlanta Braves fans should expect to receive the same thing from Markakis that they do every season. You’re getting a clubhouse leader that can carry his own on the field.

He isn’t going to hit tons of home runs or blow you away with his defense. However, you are getting a consummate professional and a veteran that contributes through clutch hits and the ability to get on base.

He is coming off of his very first All-Star caliber season. Is he going to make the All-Star team again in 2019? I’m not sure. However, I do know that he will give the Braves meaningful at-bats and help all the youngsters continue to develop.

I know fans were disappointed that the Braves didn’t make a big splash in free agency for players like A.J. Pollock or Michael Brantley. I also know a majority of fans didn’t mean that as a slight towards Markakis, but it’s hard not to imagine what could have been.

Luckily for Braves fans, we have a team friendly deal with a player that is going to have an impact on this team. Batting fifth in the order may benefit Markakis and provide some protection for Acuna Jr. who is venturing into the cleanup spot.

Now, what do I think?

I believe you’re going to see Nick Markakis hit around the .280 mark this season with 13 home runs and 82 RBI. He is going to get similar run-producing opportunities and have a somewhat similar performance to last year (hopefully without the decline in the second half).

If this Spring is any indication, Markakis is ready to prove all of us wrong. He wants to be the same guy he was last season for Atlanta.

Nick carries a ridiculous .414 average across 14 games with 12 hits including 1 home run and 4 RBI. He has also drawn 5 walks and tallied 16 total bases. It seems as if the Braves right fielder is more than ready for the season to start.

I cannot speak highly enough of the professionalism that Nick Markakis carries himself with. That is what sets him apart from other players.

He knows how to influence within the clubhouse and he continually works on improving his performance. I think he is extremely motivated to push this team toward another NL East title.

There is no way of knowing exactly how well any player will perform each year. Injuries happen and fatigue can take over, but Markakis seems like the kind of player that can push through that kind of adversity. I have no doubt that he will contribute in a major way before the 2019 season comes to a close.