Steve Davis: The Value Of Nick Markakis
I think it is unfortunate that Nick Markakis has played the majority of his career for a perennial loser. As a result, he hasn't gotten the credit he deserves.
Is he a great player? Maybe not. But, he is really good, and probably under-rated and under-appreciated as a player.
Just look at the winning at-bat in Monday's game. Bases loaded, tie game, 9th inning, he falls behind 0-2, and slaps a pitch to left for the game winner. Does anyone know just how hard that is? His back is against the wall, and has the poise and presence, never mind the ability to go with the pitch and will it to leftfield for a walk-off hit. The guy can just play ball.
Pencil him in every day and you know the guy is going to play a great rightfield, give you quality at bats, run the bases, and play with his head in the game. If he had been on a playoff caliber team, he would be a highly regarded player in baseball. I'm glad people are finally getting the chance to see just how good he is.
