Here’s the latest on the Braves’ first-base saga — and why Matt Olson’s breakout in Atlanta hasn’t fully quieted the chorus of fans longing for Freddie Freeman’s return.
Matt Olson is delivering for the Braves
Since coming to Atlanta before the 2022 season, Olson has been in his prime. As of June 29, 2025, he’s slashing .255/.354/.522 with 274 career homers, and earned a Gold Glove (2×) and Silver Slugger—including leading MLB in homers and RBIs in 2023 .
Fans and analysts alike acknowledge Olson’s elite power and defense. He set the Braves’ franchise single-season home run record in 2023 and continues to be a dominant force at first base .
But Braves fans still hold onto Freddie Freeman
Many fans compare Olson to Freeman, expressing nostalgia for the latter, who remains at the top of his game with the Dodgers. Freeman is currently batting around .300 with 353 career home runs and remains a top-tier first baseman .
The sentiment is understandable: Freeman led the Braves to the 2021 World Series title and won World Series MVP with the Dodgers in 2024—powering four homers in a five-game sweep, including the first-ever walk-off Series grand slam .
Fans online reminisce about Freeman as a lost love.” One Reddit user put it perfectly:
Freddie seems to be the equivalent of a lost love that Braves fans have a special place in their heart for.”
Why Atlanta still chose Olson
Analysts at MLB.com outlined the Braves’ rationale back in 2022:
1. Age & longevity: Olson, born 1994, is nearly five years younger than Freeman, offering a longer prime window .
2. Comparable output: Hobbling out nearly identical WAR and slugging profiles over preceding seasons .
3. Financial strategy: Olson’s eight-year, $168 million deal is more cost-effective over time compared to likely Freeman offers
4. Prospect repayment: The Braves traded four prospects (including Shea Langeliers and Cristian Pache) for Olson—an investment the organization deemed worthwhile .
The fan perspective today
On-field success: Olson is thriving—playing consistently, breaking records, and becoming a team cornerstone.
Off-field emotions: Sentimentality remains strong. Braves fans still miss Freeman’s leadership and clutch moments, and will likely continue to compare the players.
The bigger picture: Most analysts assert the organization made a savvy long-term decision. While Freeman’s legacy endures, Olson gives Atlanta sustained elite-level production for years to come.
Matt Olson has effectively stepped into Freeman’s shoes and then some—making the Braves proud with power, defense, and a franchise-first-name. But baseball fans are emotional. They’re not ready to forget a World Series hero, and Freeman’s continued excellence in L.A. reignites those feelings. Ultimately, Atlanta’s front office prioritized strategic investment and longevity. For Braves fans, it’s a blend of celebrating Olson’s rise—and quietly missing the magic that Freddie once brought to Truist Park.
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