It took more than 1,200 career games, but Braves first baseman Matt Olson was finally ejected — and it came on one of the most controversial calls of the season.
In Friday’s matchup with the Pirates, Olson was ruled guilty of catcher’s interference, leading to an argument that escalated into his first career dismissal.
The Call That Sparked It
The play unfolded when Pittsburgh catcher Henry Davis chased a popup off Olson’s bat. As Davis moved, he made contact with Olson, who had remained in the batter’s box. Davis then dropped the ball, but home plate umpire Brock Ballou ruled catcher’s interference on Olson.
Video replays showed Olson did not step forward or interfere with the catcher’s path. Instead, Davis appeared to bump Olson in the process of making the play.
Escalation in Atlanta’s Dugout
Olson argued the call initially and then continued from the dugout after the play ended. Ballou quickly ejected him, making it the first ejection of Olson’s career after 1,222 games.
Manager Brian Snitker soon joined the argument, defending Olson. Snitker was also tossed, adding another ejection to his long career ledger — and possibly his final one, with his managerial future still uncertain heading into the offseason.
Rulebook Confusion
Crew chief Mark Wegner later referenced Rule 6.03(a)(3), which covers batter interference with the catcher. But the description of the call did not seem to match what the video showed.
That disconnect only fueled frustration in the Braves’ dugout, with players and coaches visibly upset by what they viewed as a misapplication of the rule.
A Rare Scene for Braves Country
For Braves fans, the sequence was jarring. Matt Olson, known for his calm and even-keeled demeanor, had never been ejected before. Seeing him and Snitker both tossed in the same inning underscored just how unusual and baffling the call was.
Late in a season already defined by disappointment, the moment added one more bizarre chapter. Braves Country may not remember the score of that night’s game, but they will remember the sight of Olson leaving the dugout for the first time in protest.
