Nick Markakis

Braves' Veteran Nick Markakis a Potential Beneficiary of new DH

Atlanta Braves outfielder Nick Markakis could see more playing time than originally expected in 2020 with the designated hitter position now in play, according to MLB.com's Mark Bowman.

What It Means:

The MLB has instituted a DH in the National League as part of the new rules in the coronavirus-shortened season, meaning the Braves will have an extra hitter in their lineup each and every game. While Markakis isn't necessarily considered a bad fielder, he's getting up there in age at 36 years old. Given the new spot in the lineup, manager Brian Snitker could opt to put the veteran outfielder at DH instead of a typical day off.

In 469 plate appearances last season, Markakis had a .285 batting average with nine home runs, 62 RBI and a .776 OPS.