The Atlanta Braves‘ Matt Olson has snagged the 2024 Fielding Bible Award for first base. This marks his fourth overall win in this prestigious category, but his first was while wearing a Braves uniform.
Olson’s season on the defensive front saw him lead all first basemen in the league in defensive runs saved. That is an impressive feat that underscores his all-around value, especially during what some would call a down year comparatively at the plate.
The stats tell one side of the story, and Olson’s glove does the rest. His play at first base remained a highlight reel for Braves fans, even as he faced challenges at-bat. He proves that a player’s impact goes well beyond offensive numbers.
Matt Olson becomes the fifth Braves player to be honored with a Fielding Bible Award by clinching this award. He joined the likes of Max Fried, who was the last Braves player to win. Fried brought home the trophy for pitcher defense back in 2020. Intriguingly, Olson is also the first Braves first baseman to receive this honor, further distinguishing his season.
It’s clear the franchise has a rich legacy of defensive excellence when looking back at the Braves’ history with the Fielding Bible Award. Braves players have been winners eight times since the award’s inception in 2006. Shortstop Andrelton Simmons leads the Braves pack, clinching the award three times in a row from 2013 to 2015. Outfielders Jason Heyward and Andruw Jones are also notable winners, with Heyward taking the title twice (2012, 2014) and Jones securing it back in 2007.
The Fielding Bible Award is presented by Sports Info Solutions, relying heavily on defensive analytics and expert judgment. A panel of 15 writers votes on the award, and their decision-making process goes beyond numbers. They also consider the eye test before selecting a winner.
Observers evaluate how players move, position themselves, and make split-second decisions that turn would-be hits into outs. This year, Olson’s consistency and reliability on the field, evidenced by a .996 fielding percentage and just six errors over a grueling 162-game season, clearly caught their attention.
Olson is also a finalist for the Gold Glove Award. Unlike the Gold Glove Award, the Fielding Bible Award is an MLB-wide recognition. This means that just one player per position across the entire MLB team can win. Matt Olson has once again proved he’s not just a force with the bat; he’s one of the league’s best gloves at first base.
