Braves right fielder Nick Markakis won the Silver Slugger award Thursday night for the first time, capping what’s considered the most celebrated campaign of the 34-year-old’s career thus far.
The Silver Slugger award is given to the top offensive players at each position, voted on by managers and coaches.
Markakis was named to his first All-Star game in 2018 and also won the Gold Glove for his defensive efforts. He played a pivotal role on and off the field in the Braves’ surprising run to 90 wins and a division title.
The veteran, now a free agent, compiled a .297 batting average with 43 doubles, 78 runs scored and 93 RBIs. He was one of two players in the majors who started all 162 games this season, only the fifth Brave to do so under that scheduling format (since 1962 in the NL).
Markakis’ 43 doubles ranked third in the NL. He was the first player in Braves franchise history to collect at least 35 doubles in four consecutive seasons.
And he did it all in the clean-up spot. Markakis’ power profile made him an unorthodox match hitting behind Freddie Freeman, but he handled the spot well, even on opening day when his three-run homer defeated the Phillies.
“I’m very honored to be named a Silver Slugger award winner,” Markakis said in a statement provided by the team. “It means a lot to be recognized by managers and coaches across the league, but I am particularly proud that I was able to contribute to the overall success of our team.”
