Nick Markakis opts out of 2020 season

Braves outfielder Nick Markakis has opted out of the 2020 season because of the coronavirus pandemic, manager Brian Snitker announced Monday.

“We’ll miss him. He’s the backbone of our club,” Snitker said.

» LIST: Players, coaches opt out of MLB season

Snitker said Markakis informed him of his decision Sunday.

The Braves had four players, including Freddie Freeman, test positive for COVID-19. Markakis said a conversation with Freeman "opened his eyes."

Previously, starting pitcher Felix Hernandez and first base coach Eric Young Sr., 53, elected to miss the 2020 season out concerns over the coronavirus pandemic.

About the Author

The Braves bring back left-hander Danny Young, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, on a nonguaranteed deal for bullpen depth.

35m ago

The Latest

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

35m ago

Featured

Credit: Family photo

Austin’s Law, passed in 2024, is leading to convictions of fentanyl dealers after a father’s fight for justice following his son’s overdose death.

What will National Signing Day look like? It is starting to materialize significant storylines.

Timothy Shane is accused of stealing an SUV and then crashing it during the getaway, according to authorities.