Matt Olson Nears Historic Streak as Braves Fall to Nationals
The Atlanta Braves fell to the Washington Nationals on Sunday afternoon, dropping to 70-60 on the season. Despite the 5-3 loss, the Braves remain in control of the third and final National League Wild Card spot, holding a 2.5-game cushion over the New York Mets, who are currently on the outside looking in.
While the defeat was a setback in the playoff race, it was still a historic day for Braves first baseman Matt Olson. Olson made his 454th consecutive start at first base, moving him closer to one of baseball’s most impressive streaks of the last 80 years. According to @OptaSTATS, Olson’s streak is now the second-longest stretch of consecutive team games played at first base by any player over the last eight decades, trailing only Pete Rose’s mark of 477 games, set between 1979 and 1982.
Olson, 30, has been a model of consistency and durability since joining the Braves in a trade from the Oakland Athletics before the 2022 season. The slugger has played in every Braves game since his arrival, including a 54-homer campaign last year that led the majors. Although Olson has struggled at the plate this season, batting just .226, he remains a power threat with 22 home runs.
With stars Ronald Acuña Jr., Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies sidelined due to injuries, Olson’s reliability has become even more crucial for Atlanta. Acuña Jr., the team’s MVP candidate, is out for the season after tearing his ACL, while Riley and Albies are also facing extended absences.
The Braves are set to begin a three-game series against the AL Central-leading Minnesota Twins on Monday night at Target Field. As the playoff race tightens, Olson’s presence and leadership will be vital for Atlanta’s postseason push.
