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Atlanta Braves checking in on Matt Olson

By David Hill

Sep 18, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Oakland Athletics first baseman Matt Olson (28) hits a solo home run against the Los Angeles Angels in the first inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Oakland Athletics first baseman Matt Olson (28) hits a solo home run against the Los Angeles Angels in the first inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Matt Olson is going to be one of the more intriguing players available on the trade block. He has already generated interest from several teams, with the Yankees being amongst the most notable. However, there is now a new player in his market.

The Atlanta Braves are expected to bring Freddie Freeman back and make him a lifetime member of the franchise. However, they have also reportedly checked in on Olson, just in case the unexpected happens.

Atlanta Braves surprising entrant in Matt Olson Sweepstakes

The expectation is still that Freeman will be back in Atlanta for the upcoming season and for many years to come. He has been the face of the franchise, the link between the glory days of Bobby Cox and the current champions. It only makes sense for the Braves to keep Freeman and make him the next player to spend their entire careers with the organization.

However, at the same time, the Braves cannot just count on Freeman’s return. They need a backup option in case the unexpected happens. Olson would certainly be an excellent fallback plan, one that may even be better than their primary option.

Olson had his best season in the majors last year, producing a .271/.371/.540 batting line in his 673 plate appearances, hitting 39 homers and 35 doubles. He was a Gold Glove finalist, and at 28 years old to begin the 2022 season, would be entering his prime.

The Braves also have the pieces in their farm system to potential meet the A’s asking price. They have four players considered to be top 100 prospects according to MLB.com, as well as plenty of young arms that could entice the A’s. It is possible that, should Freeman sign elsewhere, the Braves could make a strong push to land Olson.

Next. A high asking price for Olson. dark

There is a new team engaged in the Matt Olson trade rumor mill. The Atlanta Braves may be doing their due diligence, but they have checked in on his cost.