Blue Jays, Braves, Giants showing interest in Nick Markakis

Less than a day after news broke that Baltimore had a "less than a 50/50 chance" of re-signing Nick Markakis, it appears that the Blue Jays, the Braves, and the Giants are showing interest in the free agent outfielder, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. Heyman goes on to say that Baltimore is still very much a player in Markakis' final decision.

Although it appeared as if the Orioles and Markakis were making progress on a contract extension, negotiations stalled shortly after a November 12 meeting in Phoenix, according to Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun. Markakis just wrapped up his ninth season in Baltimore, and he's been a mainstay in right field since breaking in in 2006. For his career, Markakis has posted a .290/.358/.435 slash line, along with two Gold Gloves in right field.

Toronto could view Markakis as potential candidate to replace free agent Melky Cabrera. For the 2014 season, Cabrera was a huge part of the Jays' lineup, posting a slash line of .301/.351/.458. Like Markakis, Cabrera has plenty of suitors this offseason, and has even been viewed as a fallback option for Baltimore if Markakis ends up elsewhere.

Atlanta could be a great fit for Markakis as well, as Markakis grew up in Woodstock, GA. Along with the advantage of being the Markakis' hometown team, the Braves have a vacancy in right field, with Jason Heyward's recent trade to St. Louis. Atlanta returns Justin Upton, but he could be traded this offseason, and even if he isn't, he's set to hit free agency after the 2015 season.

Although the Giants return Hunter Pence in right field, they have some financial flexibility with Pablo Sandoval headed to Boston. The money that could have gone to the Panda could be used to add Markakis or a starting pitcher. As it stands right now, Gregor Blanco will enter 2015 as the Giants' Opening Day starter in left field. Blanco grades out as an excellent defender, but his career OPS is just .688.