If you are new to watching baseball, you might wonder who Matt Olson is. or why Matt Olson is related to the Oakland Athletics when he plays for the Atlanta Braves. We are here to answer all your questions.

Who is Matt Olson?

• Matt Olson is an American professional baseball player known for his defensive skills, powerful hits, and strong arm.
• He was born on March 29, 1994, in Atlanta, Georgia. He debuted his professional career in Major League Baseball in 2016 with the Oakland Athletics.

Matt Olson’s journey from a prospect to MLB star:

Heres how he went from a prospect to being an MLB star:

Early career:

• In 2012, Matt Olson was selected during the first round of the 47th MLB draft while being a high school player by the Oakland Athletics at Parkview High School in Lilburn, Georgia.
•  Even as a high school player, he was known for his defensive abilities at first base.

• After being signed by the Oakland Athletics, he began his professional career playing in the Minor League.
•  During his first year, he played for the Arizona League Athletics and the Vermont Lake Monsters.

For a story similar to Olson’s rise, take a look at John Schneider, who also worked his way up in the baseball world.

Breakthrough:

• In 2014, Matt Olson had his breakthrough season where he hit 37 home runs and drew 117 walks in the Athletics’ Class-A Advanced affiliate with Stockton Ports. 
• This performance made him one of the most valuable prospects.
• For the next two seasons, Matt Olson showcased an exceptional performance while playing for the Midland RockHounds (Double-A) and Nashville Sounds (Triple-A), also redefining not only his defense but also his outfield skills.

MLB career:

• On September 12, 2016, Matt Olson made his MLB debut with the Oakland Athletics.
•  Even though he played a few games that season, it was a major transformation.

• In 2017, his performance during the season established him as one of the top young power hitters in the league. 
• He played 59 games for the Athletics and in just 189 at-bats. He hit 24 home runs.

• In 2018, he hit 29 home runs while playing  162 games that season and established himself as the Athletics’ everyday first baseman, earning his first Gold Glove Award for his defensive skills.

• In 2022, the Matt Olson trade took place. 

• He was traded by the Athletics to the Atlanta Braves in return for four top prospects. 
• The Braves were looking for a replacement for the Freddie Freeman trade, and Matt was the perfect candidate for this position due to his skillset and experience.

• After the Matt Olsen trade, he signed an eight-year $168 million contract extension with the Braves and continues to excel as both a defensive and offensive player. 
• He has remained one of the top power hitters in the league, a defensive stalwart at first base, and a key talent in the Braves lineup.

Achievements:

Matt Olson has various achievements in his career and continues to achieve more; some of his achievements include:

Gold Glove Awards:

• These awards highlight a player’s defensive skills, specifically at first base, strong arm, and fielding skills.

2018:

• In 2018, he earned the American League Gold Glove Award at first base.

2019: 

• In 2019, he earned the American League Gold Glove Award at first base.

2021: 

• in 2021, he earned the American League Gold Glove Award at first base.

All-Star Selections:

• These selections recognize his overall contribution to the team and highlight his offensive skills.

2021: 

• In 2021, while playing for the Oakland Athletics, he was selected as an American League All-Star.

2023: 

•  While playing for the Atlanta Braves, he was selected as a National League All-Star.

Silver Slugger Award:

• In each league, this award is given to the best offensive player at each position and highlights Matt Olsons exceptional hitting skills.

2023:

• In 2023, he won the National League Silver Slugger Award at first base.

Professional Opinions on Matt Olsons Performance:

Here is what professionals have to say about his performance:

Analysts’:

Jim Bowden (ESPN MLB Analyst):

“Matt Olson is one of the premier power hitters in the league. His ability to consistently hit for both power and average makes him a cornerstone of the Braves’ lineup. His defensive skills at first base are also top-notch.”

Keith Law (The Athletic MLB Analyst):

“Olson combines elite power with a disciplined approach at the plate. He’s not just a slugger; his plate discipline allows him to get on base at a high rate. Defensively, he’s among the best in the game.”

Buster Olney (ESPN MLB Insider):

“Olson’s impact on the Braves is palpable. His power numbers are consistently among the league leaders, and his presence in the lineup helps balance the Braves’ offensive attack.”

For more detailed statistics and information about Matt Olson, visit his profile: Matt Olson – Baseball Reference.

Conclusion:

Matt Olson in his early days established himself as a valuable prospect and has come a long way since then. Initially, he was signed by the Oakland Athletics and played for them for a big share of his career; however, he was traded by the Oakland Athletics to the Atlanta Braves. He has received various career milestones and awards during his career until now and continues to excel in his sport.

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