Of course, Baltimore admired Nick Markakis’ on-field performance year in and year out, but it was his quiet leadership and charitable work in the community that made Baltimore fall in love with him.

Just as Orioles fans began to love Markakis, the right fielder fell in love with Baltimore.

A week after making the decision to sign with the Atlanta Braves, Markakis took out a two-page ad in the Baltimore Sun to give thanks for Orioles fans and the city he calls home.

Click here to read the message.