Nick Markakis: To Undergo Neck Surgery Wednesday

Markakis will undergo neck fusion surgery Wednesday to repair a herniated disk, David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Analysis:

Markakis' recovery time is expected to be approximately eight weeks, which would allow him to be available for the majority of spring training assuming he doesn't suffer any setbacks. The longtime Orioles' outfielder signed a four-year, $44-million contract with the Braves in the offseason, and is currently in line to play right field in the place of Jason Heyward, who was traded to St. Louis. He was the leadoff hitter for most of his career in Baltimore, and will likely assume the same role with the Braves in 2015.