Markakis isn't chirping publicly about the perceived inequity, the way the Philadelphia Phillies' Cole Hamels or the Milwaukee Brewers' Prince Fielder did under similar circumstances. Those close to him, however, say Markakis was angered by the end result and, in his understated way, he said it.
"That's just how the Orioles feel," he said. "I don't have much of a choice. I'm just going to have to deal with it."
It's a tough spot for the Orioles. Give Markakis more money and set a precedent for other, less talented players while potentially boosting his bottom line in arbitration.
The alternative is having an unhappy Markakis. One who feels disrespected. And bitterness festers - that's been an Orioles specialty over the years.
MacPhail said he's not concerned this decision will endanger the club's relationship with Markakis.
"I don't think so. It's just one of those things that we deal with. It's like a club losing an arbitration case," MacPhail said. "It is the system, and different parties have leverage at different stages of the process. The club has latitude at this stage, and that shifts fairly dramatically starting next year in Nick's case."
Next offseason is key for Markakis and the Orioles. MacPhail doesn't like to talk long-term extensions until a player is facing arbitration - an understandable policy because a player is still contractually obligated to a team for three more years, yet the club is uncertain as to how much those years might cost.
Even if he doesn't sign long term, Markakis is here until at least 2011.
Yesterday, he said he'd still embrace the opportunity to be the long-term face of the organization - assuming he was content with the overall situation.
"Absolutely. I think it would be something I would look forward to being," Markakis said. "It would be an honor to be looked at like that."
That's the good news. The bad news is that this is how the breakdown always seemed to happen with past Orioles stars. Something routine goes badly - or is perceived that way. Trust, loyalty, or whatever you want to call it begins to erode, and eventually, the sides part ways.
Of course, a significant offer to Markakis next winter could wipe away any hurt feelings. The club should have plenty of cash, and that has a way of soothing all ills.
One thing this organization can't afford is alienating its best player.
dan.connolly@baltsun.com
