When Matt Olson was set to replace Freddie Freeman as the Atlanta Braves’ first baseman ahead of the 2022 season, many fans were worried.
However, Olson has been winning fans over ever since he put on a Braves uniform.
He was solid in 2022, with 34 home runs, 103 RBI, and an .802 OPS.
What he has done in 2023 is nothing short of amazing.
This year, he has graduated to MVP candidate, hitting .274/.385/.615 with a league-leading 43 home runs, 107 RBI, and a 1.000 OPS.
When it comes to run production and power, you could argue that Olson is having a better season than Ronald Acuna Jr.
The outfielder has a clear edge in batting average and stolen bases, but Olson’s power and run-production ability has him projecting 58 home runs and 144 RBI.
He is also part of an elite group.
“Matt Olson of the @Braves is the fifth NL hitter with at least 80 walks and 40 home runs through his team’s first 120 games of a season. He joins Sammy Sosa (2001, 2002), Mark McGwire (1998, 1999), Barry Bonds (2001), and Hack Wilson (1930),” OptaSTATS tweeted.
Matt Olson of the @Braves is the fifth NL hitter with at least 80 walks and 40 home runs through his team's first 120 games of a season.
He joins Sammy Sosa (2001, 2002), Mark McGwire (1998, 1999), Barry Bonds (2001) and Hack Wilson (1930). pic.twitter.com/1bvYJdoyk5
— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) August 18, 2023
Olson is the prototypical modern hitter: his average is not too high, but he boasts an incredible ability to get on base and game-changing power.
At this point, fans can’t really complain about Freeman’s replacement anymore.
In fact, Acuna and Olson complement perfectly and form a deadly duo for opposing pitchers.
It will be fascinating to have two teammates vying for the MVP award in the National League.
It would add an extra ingredient to the stretch run for the Braves.
NEXT: Matt Olson Remains On A Historic Pace
