Alright, we’re seeing this dynamic unfold where Freddie Freeman and Matt Olson are forever linked in baseball fans’ minds, especially with Braves and Dodgers fans.
Freeman, once the beloved face of the Braves, is now creating new memories with the Dodgers, and Olson has stepped into the role in Atlanta. Naturally, this has set up a lasting debate between these two all-stars, especially as both continue to make their mark in MLB.
Now at 35, Freeman delivered a standout performance in Game 1 of the 2024 World Series. And sure enough, as soon as Freeman shines, a wave of comparisons to Olson sweeps through Braves fans, and you get the predictable chorus of opinions: “Olson just isn’t Freeman” or “Atlanta never should’ve let Freddie go.” But these critiques overlook Olson’s impact on the Braves since stepping in, especially when you consider he just set the Braves’ single-season home run record.
But it’s true that Olson and Freeman bring different strengths and personalities to the field. Freeman’s consistency is second to none, rarely leaving fans guessing. Olson on the other hand has a streakier profile, with hot and cold stretches that can frustrate some. Still, when you pull back and look at the numbers over the long haul, Olson consistently posts impressive stats. In just three seasons with the Braves, he’s racked up 117 home runs and boasts a 12.2 fWAR. That’s impressive any way you slice it.
Then there’s the age factor, which is something that tends to get overlooked in the heat of the moment. Freeman is thriving at 35, which is rarefied territory for any player, especially when power is such a core part of his game. On the other hand, Olson is just 30, in the heart of his prime years.
Age is more than just a number in baseball. It often signals the difference between a career plateau and continued peak performance. So, while Freeman might hold a slight statistical edge since 2022, Olson’s potential for future dominance could swing the narrative as the years unfold.
Ultimately, the Freeman-Olson debate may be inevitable, but it’s worth remembering that both players have unique legacies. Freeman brought Atlanta a championship and now shines for the Dodgers, while Matt Olson is carving his own path. He is not only meeting Braves fans’ high expectations but often exceeding them.
Comparing them can feel a little like forcing a rivalry rather than celebrating what each brings to the game. And who knows? When each of their contracts wraps up, this conversation may look entirely different. Until then, let’s give each the credit they deserve without overshadowing the other. After all, baseball thrives on these storylines, and Freddie Freeman and Matt Olson give fans a show worth watching.
