Braves OF Nick Markakis to Sit Out 2020 Season

Nick Markakis with Atlanta Braves in 2019. Photo by Jonathan Huff/CSM/Shutterstock (10187377k)

Atlanta Braves outfielder Nick Markakis announced on Monday that he would be choosing not to play the 2020 MLB season due to concerns about the COVID-19 virus.

Markakis, who signed a one-year, $4 million deal over the offseason to return to the Braves, will abandon the Braves’ training sessions in Atlanta and instead head home, looking to keep both himself and his family as healthy and safe as possible.

Markakis, who is now 36 years old and has put together an impressive career that includes over 2,000 hits, 3 Gold Glove awards, and a 2018 All-Star appearance, told the media that various factors went into his decision.

Markakis mentioned having his eyes opened to the seriousness of the virus after speaking to teammate Freddie Freeman over the phone, who is currently in quarantine and suffering from a high fever and other symptoms after testing positive.

Markakis also mentioned wanting to keep his family safe and the realization that playing without fans in the stadium would be a strange feeling as factors in his decision.

Braves manager Brian Snitker expressed support for the veteran’s decision but also concern about how it would affect his team, stating, “When you lose a guy of that stature and what he brings and the player he is, it doesn’t help you, that’s for sure.”

Markakis stated that he is currently unsure if he will pursue a contract to return to the league next season.

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