Retired outfielder Nick Markakis spent the final six seasons of his 15 year big league career in Atlanta, and his performance often divided much of the fanbase. Some loved Markakis' no nonsense attitude and ability to hit for average, while others loathed his lack of power from a corner outfield spot and the fact that the Atlanta Braves refused to bat him lower than fifth for a long, long time.
The reason this is relevant today is because of Markakis' ties to a candidate who could become Atlanta's next manager. Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty was mentioned as a potential fit to replace Brian Snitker in Mark Bowman's latest update on Atlanta's coaching search. Flaherty's relationship with Markakis spans a long time, and it's a strong connection that could bring both back to Atlanta should Flaherty land the managerial job.
Ryan Flaherty's managerial candidacy could bring Markakis back to Atlanta
Flaherty was long-time teammates with Markakis in Baltimore before he eventually became family, and strengthened their relationship. Flaherty married the sister of Markakis' wife in 2016, and the two players gradually became more comfortable with each other over the years.
Flaherty was quoted as saying Markakis didn't speak to him for the first three years of their time together in Baltimore, but by the time both played in Atlanta, they were so close that they often carpooled to Truist Park in 2018. As things stand, Flaherty is considered one of a few serious favorites to land the Braves managerial job, and with new management often comes a new coaching staff.
Could Flaherty the manager ask his close friend and family Markakis to step into a coaching role? Markakis collected over 2,300 career hits, and obviously has earned enough respect around the league to garner consideration for a hitting coach role should he desire one. However, Markakis also made enough money during his career that he could spend the rest of his days with his family, and live very comfortably.
Regardless of who Flaherty could bring along as part of his coaching staff, any mentioning of Markakis will certainly spark some very interesting discourse within Braves social media circles. As things stand the Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels, and San Francisco Giants are the only teams to have filled managerial vacancies thus far. With the World Series underway, you shouldn't expect Flaherty or any other names to be announced as the next Braves manager until the Dodgers and Blue Jays wrap up their series.