Atlanta Braves Should Attempt to Bring Nick Markakis Back to Atlanta

The Atlanta Braves made the first big splash of the off-season signing Josh Donaldson and Brian McCann in the span of 24-hours. Now they must focus on filling the three remaining holes on their roster.

Looking at the Atlanta Braves roster it quickly becomes obvious what their shortcomings are. They lack a closer, a right-fielder, and a top of the rotation starting pitcher. Adding these three pieces would easily make them NL East favorites.

With the current market and their roster construction, the Braves should chase after a top pitcher with their remaining salary space.

Meaning they must settle for lesser options at the closer position and in right field. For a team who just added a power third baseman going back to last year’s option could be their best and only option.

Nick Markakis coming back to the Atlanta lineup would be a perfect move at this point for both sides. Nick is coming off of a solid season where he collected 185 hits while batting .297 for the Braves.

It was a great season for the veteran who helped lead a very young roster to the postseason. Bringing him back in favor of upgrading at other positions is the Braves best move here.

Aside from the blockbuster names on the market, there isn’t a player who can match Nick’s production or consistency.

Signing Markakis to a team-friendly deal and chasing after a top of the rotation pitcher should be the plan for Atlanta.

Adding a top of the rotation arm would give the team a legitimate 1-2 punch with Mike Foltynewicz in the rotation.

Nick Markakis paired with the Braves newly acquired catcher would form an effective veteran leadership tandem the Braves could count on as well.  No doubt the Braves have plenty of options, but bringing Markakis back is the best one. A move setting Atlanta up to be not only National League East favorites but National League contenders in 2019.