One notable name did not become an MLB All-Star finalist despite his two-way heroics as of late. Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson was notably snubbed when MLB released its list of All-Star finalists on Thursday night.
Matt Olson Snubbed as NL All-Star Finalist
Olson’s Slow Start
Olson came up short in the early months of the season, albeit partially due to bad luck. By mid-May, the veteran’s numbers were concerning. On May 15, he had a .215 average with a .720 OPS, and through May 27, the first baseman had contributed just 10 hits in 50 at-bats with runners in scoring position. But as June nears its end, the Braves slugger has turned the tide, reminding everyone why he’s one of baseball’s most versatile first basemen.
“This season hasn’t been ideal, but being able to cut the valleys out a little bit here and there, that’s what the best players do,” Olson said. “It’s guys being able to nip it in the bud early and move on.”
Olson Turns His Season Around
Move on he has. Olson is now on pace for his fourth 30-homer, 100-RBI campaign since 2021, showcasing his power and resilience. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker has taken notice.
“I see [Olson’s] work and the intent to grow and to make those adjustments,” Snitker said. “It’s paying off, and I think it will continue to be that.”
Olson has reemerged as a top force in the National League. He leads all NL first basemen in runs scored (46) and walks (50), ranks second in home runs (15), third in doubles (20) and his 3.3 WAR leads the entire position league-wide.
Feels like a good time to let you all know that Matt Olson leads all Major League 1B in WAR
Seems All-Star worthy pic.twitter.com/hTSy4rfWS2
— Brady Penn (@bradypenn21) June 25, 2025
Olson Serves as Reliable Defensive Force
While Olson’s bat is heating up, his glove has been steady all season long. Olson leads all major league first basemen in defensive WAR (0.9), boasts a .997 fielding percentage (second amongst NL first basemen), and his 12 defensive runs saved are not only the top amongst first basemen but third in all of MLB.
It’s a level of excellence that’s not lost on his teammates.
“I can’t say enough about the guy,” Braves starting pitcher Spencer Strider said. “I mean, we’d be here all day. He’s just an unbelievable person, player and leader. We couldn’t be doing it without him.”
In 2023, Olson etched his name into the Braves’ record books with franchise highs in home runs (54) and RBI (139) while slashing .283/.389/.604. This year, the numbers may look different, but his turnaround highlights his determination and veteran poise that the Braves can lean on both at the plate and in the field, regardless of what All-Star voters think.
Main Photo Credit: © Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
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