Olson's last HR for an Atlanta team was epic
Look at that bat drop
After pulling off a blockbuster trade with the A's for Matt Olson on Monday, Atlanta signed the All-Star first baseman to an eight-year, $168 million contract on Tuesday. You might think it could be difficult for Olson, who's spent his entire pro career in the Oakland organization, to move across the country and play for a new team in a different league. To play for the reigning World Series champions, for that matter. There might be some added pressure, some quick adjustments that would need to be made. But, well, it might be easier for him than you think.
Olson was born and raised in Atlanta and was a giant Braves fan growing up. He also went to high school at nearby Parkview High School in Lilburn, Ga. There, he helped the team to a state championship in 2011 and then, in 2012, played out of this world. He hit .407 with 11 homers and 52 RBIs, while also pitching to a 12-1 record, 1.65 ERA and putting up 85 strikeouts in 85 innings.
And in the 2012 state championship game, with the game tied in the top half of the last inning, 18-year-old Olson walked up to the plate like he knew what needed to be done. On the very first pitch, he destroyed the offering from the opposing Brookwood pitcher to win his team another state title. Look at the outfielders -- they barely move.
So yeah, there's a good chance Olson will be pretty comfortable in his new surroundings. Let's just hope he breaks out that smooth bat drop after his first dinger at Truist Park.