Nick Markakis thanks Orioles, fans with two-page newspaper ad

Former Baltimore Orioles outfielder Nick Markakis was one of the last players expected to be moving this offseason.

In nine years in Baltimore, Markakis had excelled on the field and become a fan favorite. But Baltimore opted to pass on the veteran this offseason. Markakis signed a four-year deal, reportedly worth $44 million, with the Atlanta Braves last week.

So Markakis took out a two-page message in the Baltimore Sun to thank not only the Orioles for their help with his career, but also to thank his teammates and fans for their support and friendship during his time in Baltimore.

• Prospect Andrew Heaney a Los Angeles Dodger for just an afternoon

He also made it clear that Baltimore will remain his family’s home.

At look at Markakis' numbers in his nine seasons with the Orioles makes it clear why it was so hard for the team to let him go. A look at the letter he penned to his longtime team and home makes it clear why Baltimore is so sad to see him leave.