Before the lockout, it was reported that the Braves had been in contact with the A’s regarding Matt Olson. Oakland appears to be open to dealing him, making him an obvious replacement option if Freddie Freeman signs elsewhere. Hopefully, Freeman remains in Atlanta, but it’s far from a foregone conclusion at this point, so it’s no surprise the Braves continue to keep tabs on Olson.
#Braves have been in touch with Oakland about Matt Olson (an Atlanta native) in the event that Freddie Freeman signs elsewhere. Many in the industry expect Freeman to sign before Carlos Correa, among top remaining free agents. @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) March 11, 2022
In reality, Olson could be an even better fit than Freeman. He’s younger, won’t cost as much over the remainder of his contract, and is coming off a year in which he blasted 39 homers and recorded 5.8 WAR.
Still, re-signing Freeman makes the most sense for the Braves. He’s the face of the franchise and won’t cost any prospects. If Alex Anthopoulos is forced to make a deal for Olson, it will surely cost the Braves a boatload of young pieces, and the farm system is already lacking depth.
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