Dave Scheiber of FoxSports.com posted an article that I felt was noteworthy to the BSR audience. Schieber, which I believe is German for Bieber, writes that he believes Orioles right fielder Nick Markakis is poised for a solid season at the plate in 2011.
Markakis has hit over .298 his entire career has driven in 100 runs and 20+ home runs two out of his five Major League seasons. But the quiet Markakis has never made an All-Star team and receives very little recognition for his or stellar play with the glove in right field.
With an improved lineup in Charm City this year, could Markakis get the recognition he deserves for his play for the O’s?
Markakis has been providing a possible sneak peek, enjoying a sensational spring. In Tuesday’s 6-2 win over the Yankees at Ed Smith Stadium, he picked up two hits in the second spot of the order, followed by catcher Matt Wieters, Guerrero, Scott and Jones. With a week to play, he’s hitting .378 (14-for-37), with four doubles, two homers and 10 RBI.
In an improved lineup in 2011, Markakis won’t have to worry about drawing another 73 walks like he did last season. With Vlad Guerrero, Luke Scott and Mark Reynolds supporting him, he won’t be seeing nearly as many free passes this season at the dish.
With more eyes on the Orioles this season, maybe this is finally the year that Markakis finally gets the recognition he deserves.
