The Atlanta Braves are heading into the 2026 MLB season determined to bounce back and reestablish themselves as postseason contenders. After a disappointing 2025 campaign, Atlanta appears poised to return to form following an offseason spent addressing roster weaknesses.
The lineup now features fewer holes, and the core remains strong and in its prime. While that group is headlined by right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr., first basemanMatt Olson continues to stand out as one of the team’s most reliable contributors and one of the more underrated stars in the league.
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Olson delivered another steady season in 2025, posting a .272 batting average, .366 on-base percentage, .850 OPS, 29 home runs and 95 RBIs across all 162 games.
His consistency earned him an 18th-place finish in National League MVP voting, further proof of his value in the middle of Atlanta’s lineup.
Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28)© Brett Davis-Imagn Images
(© Brett Davis-Imagn Images)
As Olson prepares for his fifth season with the Braves, his role as a central offensive force remains unchanged.
On Monday, MLB Network recognized that impact in its Top 100 Players Right Now list, placing Olson at No. 31. The ranking reflects the belief that only 30 players across the sport provide a greater overall impact.
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It also marks a modest rise from his No. 34 placement last year, underscoring both his longevity and the sustainability of his production.
MLB highlighted his achievement in an announcement on X, showcasing the respect Olson continues to command around the game.
Matt Olson’s Reliability Anchors Braves’ 2026 Playoff Push
Since arriving in Atlanta in March 2022 through a blockbuster trade with the Athletics, Olson has become one of the franchise’s superstars. Immediately after the deal, the front office secured the 31-year-old with an eight-year, $168 million extension, and he has rewarded that investment with both production and durability.
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Olson has never missed a regular-season game since joining the Braves, embodying the “iron man” label while anchoring first base.
His value extends beyond the batter’s box, as he is an elite defender with three Gold Glove Awards to his name. He is also a three-time All-Star and a Silver Slugger winner, further underscoring his all-around impact.
As Atlanta looks to rebound in 2026, Olson’s consistency provides stability, giving the Braves confidence that their lineup remains championship caliber despite recent setbacks.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.