Who is the Highest-Paid Player on the Atlanta Braves?

 

The Atlanta Braves are one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, known for their rich history, loyal fan base, and consistently competitive teams. Over the years, the Braves have fielded some of the biggest stars in baseball, and with stardom often comes big paychecks. As of 2024, the highest-paid player on the Braves roster is first baseman Matt Olson, who signed a massive eight-year, $168 million contract extension in 2022.

In this blog, we will explore Matt Olson’s rise to prominence, the details of his contract, and his overall impact on the Braves, both on and off the field. We’ll also touch on how his deal compares to other contracts in MLB and what it means for the future of the Atlanta Braves.

Matt Olson’s Path to the Braves

Matt Olson was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the first round (47th overall) of the 2012 MLB Draft. A talented first baseman with power-hitting potential and superb defense, Olson quickly made a name for himself in the A’s organization. After spending several years developing in the minors, Olson debuted with the A’s in 2016, where his power and glove immediately impressed fans and coaches alike.

By 2017, Olson emerged as one of the premier power hitters in the game, smashing 24 home runs in just 59 games. His incredible slugging percentage (.651) and defensive prowess made him an invaluable asset to the Athletics. Over the next several seasons, Olson continued to solidify his reputation as a star in the making. He earned his first Gold Glove Award in 2018 and was selected for the MLB All-Star Game in 2021.

However, after the 2021 season, the A’s embarked on a roster overhaul, and Olson, who was approaching free agency, became a valuable trade asset. The Atlanta Braves, fresh off a World Series victory but faced with the potential departure of franchise icon Freddie Freeman, saw an opportunity to acquire Olson and traded for him in March 2022. Shortly after the trade, the Braves signed Olson to an eight-year, $168 million extension, securing him as the team’s long-term solution at first base.

The Contract: Breaking Down Olson’s $168 Million Deal

Matt Olson’s contract with the Braves is one of the largest in the franchise’s history. Here’s a breakdown of the key details:

• Total Value: $168 million over eight years

• Average Annual Value (AAV): $21 million

• Duration: 2022-2029, with a club option for 2030

• Signing Bonus: Olson received a $15 million signing bonus as part of the deal

This contract made Olson the highest-paid player on the Braves, surpassing several other stars on the roster, including Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies, both of whom are signed to team-friendly extensions. The deal was a major investment for the Braves, but one that they deemed necessary to secure a long-term replacement for Freddie Freeman, who ultimately signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Olson’s Impact on the Field

As the highest-paid player on the Braves, Matt Olson has lived up to expectations. Known for his powerful bat and elite defense at first base, Olson provides a combination of offensive and defensive production that is rare among first basemen.

Offensive Contributions

Olson is best known for his power-hitting ability. Throughout his career, he has consistently ranked among the league leaders in home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage. His left-handed swing is tailor-made for Truist Park, the Braves’ home field, where he regularly launches towering home runs into the right-field stands.

In his first season with the Braves (2022), Olson hit 34 home runs and drove in 103 runs, solidifying his place as a key part of the team’s lineup. In 2023, he followed up with an even more impressive campaign, smashing 42 homers and driving in 120 runs, all while maintaining a solid .275 batting average. His presence in the middle of the Braves’ order provides protection for fellow stars like Acuña Jr. and Austin Riley, making the Atlanta Braves one of the most dangerous offensive teams in baseball.

Defensive Excellence

While Olson’s power-hitting gets much of the attention, his defense at first base is equally impressive. He has won multiple Gold Glove Awards, recognizing him as one of the best defensive first basemen in the game. Olson’s ability to scoop errant throws, stretch for outs, and make difficult plays look routine gives the Braves’ infield a level of confidence that is hard to quantify.

His defense not only saves runs but also keeps pitchers out of tough situations by turning potential errors into outs. For a team with championship aspirations like the Braves, having a reliable defender at first base is invaluable.

Olson’s Leadership and Influence

Beyond his on-field contributions, Matt Olson has quickly emerged as a leader in the Braves’ clubhouse. Despite being a newcomer in 2022, Olson’s work ethic and professionalism earned him the respect of his teammates. As the highest-paid player on the team, there are always expectations for leadership, and Olson has embraced that role.

His calm demeanor and steady presence provide a stabilizing force in the Braves’ locker room, especially during the high-pressure moments of a playoff race. Olson has been vocal about his excitement to play for his hometown team (he grew up in the Atlanta area) and his desire to help the Braves win more championships.

How Olson’s Contract Compares to Others in MLB

While Olson’s $168 million deal makes him the highest-paid player on the Braves, it is relatively modest compared to some of the mega-contracts handed out across MLB in recent years. Players like Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, and Fernando Tatis Jr. have all signed deals worth well over $300 million. However, Olson’s contract is still a significant investment for the Braves and reflects their confidence in his ability to anchor the team for years to come.

What makes Olson’s deal particularly valuable for the Braves is the timing. The Braves were able to lock him in at a time when salaries were continuing to escalate across the league, securing a power-hitting first baseman who is also an elite defender without having to break the bank entirely.

Conclusion: Olson’s Future with the Braves

Matt Olson’s arrival in Atlanta marked a new chapter for the Braves, and his performance so far has validated the team’s decision to make him their highest-paid player. With his power, defense, and leadership, Olson is a cornerstone for the Braves as they continue to pursue championships in the years to come.

As of 2024, Olson remains the highest-paid player on the Braves roster, and his long-term contract ensures that he will be a key part of the team’s future. For Braves fans, having a player of Olson’s caliber locked in for the long haul is a reason for optimism, as the team looks to build on its recent success and bring more titles to Atlanta.