Nick Markakis: On base machine (by default)

A lot has been made in the Sun and on the broadcasts that Markakis isn't getting anything to hit, which is completely true. We all knew that Tejada's departure would limit the amount of good pitches he sees, but this is worse than I thought. His 1 HR and two 2Bs thus far are the result of pitchers not giving him anything down the  plate.Opposing pitchers would simply rather go after Millar and Huff, and I don't blame them at all.

As of now, Nick as 12 walks in 13 games (for a robust .473 OBP), which leads the AL. Our CC community projection predicted that he would draw 72 walks all season, now we have legitimate reason to believe he'll break 100 and have a .400+ OBP.

As long as Brian Roberts is still around and getting on base, I see no reason that this trend can't continue. We will just have to deal with the fact that he might not clear 20 HRs this season.

Can't say Nick isn't a trooper though:

"I'm seeing a lot more of 3-1, 3-2 off-speed pitches, but that's how it's going to go," he said. "I don't mind. I'll take the walks all day long and give more opportunities for guys like Millar and Huff to drive in runs."

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-sp.osnotes13apr13,0,4920076.story