MLB Trade Rumors: 5 waiver deadline players who could get moved

Atlanta Braves rightfielder Nick Markakis has two more years remaining on his deal with his hometown team. However, the Braves have not been shy about potentially moving one of the more reliable players over the last two seasons.

Though he has absolutely no home run power after undergoing neck surgery before the 2015 MLB season (eight home runs in two years with the Braves), Markakis is a consistent contact hitter that can fit into any spot in a batting order. He’s also been known to play error-free right field.

With the Braves acquiring outfielder Matt Kemp from the San Diego Padres for massive disappointment Hector Olivera, one could argue that either Markakis or centerfielder Ender Inciarte are on their way out of Atlanta. Atlanta acquired Inciarte in the lopsided Shelby Miller deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks and see him as a long-term trade asset.

Markakis still handles a bat well and is never hurt. In 103 games for the lousy 2016 Braves, Markakis is hitting .265/.345/.369 with 104 base knocks, five homers, and 52 runs batted in.

Though he is now devoid of home run power after being a 14+ long ball guy in nine years with the Baltimore Orioles, Markakis would easily raise a playoff team’s bottom line in the outfield. For teams that are consistently inconsistent, Markakis would absolutely bring a steady approach to a team vying for the postseason.

Next: 3. Ervin Santana.