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Matt Olson 2023 Player Outlook: Elite Source Of Power In Strong Position
2 years agoAtlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson had a solid, but what could be considered a slightly down 2022 season. The first of his eight-year deal ended with a .240/.325/.477 slash line, 34 home runs, and 103 RBI. His strikeout rate jumped from 16.8% to 24.3%, and his batting average dipped from 2021. However, Olson still hit the ball extremely hard, with an average exit velocity and hard-hit rate both in the top three percent of baseball. Olson is an elite source of power, which has become more valuable in fantasy given the changes to the baseballs across the league. His power should help bolster his BA, as his 2022 BABIP of .274 was higher than his .240 BA. Given the strong lineup around him and his power, there is no reason to think that Olson can't provide a .250 BA with 90 runs and 100 RBI, making him a valuable fantasy contributor. Olson is currently being drafted at about pick 45 overall, making him the fifth first baseman off the board. The top of the position is deep, so fantasy managers may have the luxury of filling a few different positions with top-tier talent before drafting him.
