SARASOTA-Nick Markakis Returns as Orioles Guest Instructor
For the second consecutive year, Orioles fans were treated to the familiar sight of Nick Markakis in Sarasota, where he’s been sharing his wealth of experience as a guest instructor. Markakis, who spent nine memorable seasons with the Orioles, ranks seventh in team history with 1,547 hits.
On Saturday morning, he shared his insights with the local media. Here’s what he had to say:
On the Team’s Current Form:
Markakis emphasized the importance of using spring training effectively, highlighting that staying healthy is crucial for any ballclub. “The guys seem like they’re on a good path, getting their bodies ready for the season.
It’s a long season, and the biggest thing is staying healthy and being able to be out there every day,” he noted. With the team gaining more experience, he sees a positive trajectory, noting, “It’s all a process.
It’s a learning experience, and these guys are still fairly young. Everything’s been great, everything’s been positive.”
On Team Cohesiveness:
Reflecting on his time with winning teams, Markakis stressed the importance of a strong clubhouse dynamic. “You’re here together as teammates more than your family.
Having a good clubhouse, guys getting along, that’s part of piecing a team together,” he said. He praised the team’s current chemistry, stating that everyone seems to get along well and is eager to improve.
“If they can stay healthy, they can do good things over here.”
On Pete Alonso’s Impact:
Markakis had high praise for Pete Alonso, recalling their encounters on the field. “What Pete brings as an individual and as a teammate, it’s hard to bring in guys like that,” he said.
Markakis highlighted Alonso’s on-field capabilities and his positive influence in the clubhouse. “He knows what he wants.
He knows what he’s going to bring to the team. It’s definitely a positive to have a bat like that, a guy like that in the clubhouse.”
On Chris Davis’ Hall of Fame Induction:
Markakis expressed his happiness for Chris Davis being elected to the Orioles’ Hall of Fame. “He’s definitely deserving.
His numbers speak for themselves,” he said, acknowledging Davis’ significant contributions to the organization. “He put his time in, and he put some really good numbers up in several years.”
On Overcoming an Injury-Marred Season:
Drawing from his own experience, Markakis emphasized learning from past injuries. “Maybe some things you can do different, alter some things,” he suggested.
His focus during spring training was always on staying healthy. “You can’t really help your team when you’re hurt, and on the sidelines.
It’s super important to stay healthy. It’s a learning process.”
On the World Baseball Classic:
Having played for Greece in the 2004 Olympics, Markakis shared his enthusiasm for the World Baseball Classic. “Besides making my big league debut, playing in the Olympics was one of my more exciting times in baseball,” he reminisced.
He’s been enjoying the increased competition and passion on display. “It’s great for baseball.
It’s great for the guys, and it’s good to see the passion that all these players have.”
Markakis’ presence in Sarasota not only brings back fond memories for Orioles fans but also provides invaluable guidance to the team’s younger players, blending experience with enthusiasm for the game.