Braves Player Sends Message to Matt Olson After Career Milestone

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated May 5, 2026 1:49 PM ET

The Atlanta Braves have started to the season red-hot at 25-11. Much of that surge stems from first baseman Matt Olson, one of the game’s most dangerous bats this year.

A former Athletics first baseman, he was acquired by the Braves in a blockbuster 2021 trade and later signed an eight-year, $168 million extension with the club.

On Monday, Olson came through at the plate despite the defeat. In a 5-4 loss to the Seattle Mariners, the 32-year-old went 1-for-3, launching a solo home run in the sixth inning. He continues to be a steady presence in the heart of the order, barreling pitches and providing consistent production for Atlanta’s lineup.

Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) © Brett Davis-Imagn Images© Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Monday night’s game also marked Olson’s 300th career home run, making him the 166th member of this elite club. It was his fifth homer in the past eight games, drawing praise from teammates and coaches alike.

Teammate AJ Smith-Shawver reposted a message on Instagram on Tuesday recognizing Olson’s achievement, writing, “Is that good??” as a playful nod to the team’s clubhouse chemistry. Smith-Shawver is currently on the 60-day injured list, recovering from Tommy John surgery to repair a torn UCL in his right elbow.

The right-hander, drafted by Atlanta in the seventh round in 2021, has spent just over three seasons with the club as a top prospect and spot starter.

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Olson is putting together a dominant season, leading the National League with 12 home runs and 32 RBIs while adding 15 doubles. Through 36 games, he posted a .300 batting average, .383 on-base percentage, and a 1.047 OPS.

The three-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove winner and Silver Slugger has become a centerpiece of Atlanta’s offense, powering the lineup as the Braves sit atop MLB.

If Smith-Shawver returns around the 2026 All-Star break, he could give the rotation a boost, assuming a smooth recovery.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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