LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Nick Markakis isn't where he wants to be with his swing and defense, but the Braves' veteran right fielder is confident there's enough time to get there before opening day, or at least get close enough.
Markakis went 0-for-3 Tuesday against the Phillies in his second game since a four-month rehab following neck surgery. He served as designated hitter Monday and went 2-for-3 with a double in his Grapefruit League debut.
“Just getting back out there is a good feeling,” said Markakis, a Woodstock High graduate who signed a four-year, $44 million contract with the Braves in December after nine seasons with the Orioles. “I’ve still got some work out there, see some more balls off the bat and make some more throws. But I’ve still got some time for that, so I’ll be alright.”
He played six innings in right field Tuesday without incident. He grounded into a double play in the first inning, popped out to the shortstop in the fourth inning, and struck out in the sixth.
“I feel better than I thought I’d feel,” he said. “I’ve still got some work left. Swing feels good, it’s just a matter of timing now. It’s just a matter of getting some (at-bats), getting some live pitching, getting in there and trying to put some good swings on balls.”
Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez reiterated he’s confident of having Markakis in the opening day lineup April 6 at Miami.
“We’ve got the off day tomorrow,” said Gonzalez, whose Braves have their only open date of spring training Wednesday. “He got six at-bats in two days. We’ll see what Thursday brings. He’s going to let me know in the next couple of hours whether he’s going to stay back here (at Braves camp) and get some minor league at-bats or go on the trip and play (against the Pirates).”
Markakis said he planned to stay back Thursday and play in a minor league game, since he can get up to seven at-bats in one day that way by leading off every inning. The Braves travel to Bradenton, Fla., on Thursday to play the Pirates.
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