Nick Markakis (OF, ATL) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in Deeper / 5 Outfielder Leagues

OWNED IN: 33% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: Nick Markakis, 31, right fielder, is coming off his worst season in his nine-year career with the Baltimore Orioles. His RBI totals dramatically tailed off over the last three seasons, as well as his extra base totals. Still, Markakis is someone you can claim through waivers to help fill out your fantasy roster.

Over nine seasons with the Baltimore Orioles, he had a .290 BA, a ton of hits each season and always found a way to get on base. Now he’s coming home to where he grew up and is expected to be a key piece in the Atlanta Braves lineup after signing a four-year $44-million deal in the offseason.

Markakis was cleared to start opening day despite having neck fusion surgery that cost him to miss most of spring training.  After dumping so many players in the offseason, Markakis is expected to hit third in a depleted lineup. Luckily for him, Freddie Freeman will be batting fourth, protecting him, which means Markakis could get plenty of pitches to hit. My Projection: 500 AB, .280 AVG, 14 HR, 60 RBI, 80 R, 10 SB.