He may not win the MVP but he definitely deserves the Roberte Clemente Award. As a father to an autistic child and a HUGE Braves fan; this really hit home.

@tangofett4065

10 ай бұрын

Same here. I have an autistic child and I’m also a Braves fan. This was a wonderful story and made me even more proud to be a Braves fan!

@kingpotasium2814

10 ай бұрын

Mat Olson should not win, and I think Nick Ahmed should win it. Here's why. 1. Nick Ahmed was an amazing clubhouse presence. He was friendly, always giving advice and helping other fellow teammates out when things were truly lost. 2. He has devoted his life to teaching younger kids and little leaguers how to truly perfect the art of baseball. Although he isn't a very good major leaguer, he is no doubt one of the best shortstops on his generation. He has multiple training facilities co run by him to truly help out the arizona youth. 3. He has donated a portion of his money to all kinds of charities, saying how most people deserve the money than he does. 4. He's an amazing guy in general. He's an all-around an amazing presence. I've talked to him multiple times in the vip sections in Chase Field, and he is truly a smart individual in the art of baseball. Funny and all-around selfless guy to anyone he meets.

@Southernguy41

10 ай бұрын

@@kingpotasium2814This isn’t a one up on who’s better outside of the field. They both do great work and are a great clubhouse presence.

@amberwaeltz234

10 ай бұрын

I'm a Rangers fan, but what an absolute class act. Huge respect for Matt Olson. This is bigger than any team loyalty. I have an autistic little brother, so this made me tear up!

@sheilalong7248

10 ай бұрын

​@@tangofett406500⁰

As a Phillies fan and someone who has a sibling with autism, enjoy this great man Braves fans, you passed the first baseman torch in the best way possible. Oakland fire sale got you two great franchise pieces

I knew Olson was always a class act when he played for Oakland, but didn’t realize he was this good a guy. Props to him

@tlininger36

10 ай бұрын

Agree, I had no idea he did this, he has a new fan in me, him Rizzo, Freeman are total class human beings.

Olson for President Ive seen enough

@npittswarof2

10 ай бұрын

He would do a MUCH better job than Brandon

@HomeStudioBasics

10 ай бұрын

Lol understatement of the year. A cardboard cut out of matt would do a better job than brandon. @@npittswarof2

I always had the feeling that there's a heartwarming story behind Matt Olson

@dylanproctor6525

10 ай бұрын

I did to the way he smiles even when loosing

@npittswarof2

10 ай бұрын

I love Matt Olson. He is just so nice and looks like he is a super cool guy to be friends with.

@YoungSantasGroupie

10 ай бұрын

It takes someone with a big heart and who doesn’t take themselves too seriously to connect with people who are different. I love to see this. Often it’s the big ego players who get the spotlight. MLB knows that these flashy players will bring young fans, but sometimes those big ego, ultra-confident guys are not good to people in their lives, not good teammates (no need to name names here, but I’m sure you can think of some) We need to highlight more players like Matt Olsen. Stories like these are amazing. And players like Olsen have the type of character that helps a team thrive.

@Washwork

10 ай бұрын

@@YoungSantasGroupie 1000% agree

When it comes to my being my favorite player, Matt is giving Chipper a run for his money. As a father of a child with Autism, this is very heart warming.

I’m a huge Astros fan my son has non verbal Autism this really hits home he’s definitely one of my favorite players now

@boggyeman659

10 ай бұрын

Respect brother for you as a Braves fan,at the end there are a lot of things more important than the sport rivalry 💪🙏

@FigureFarter

10 ай бұрын

@@boggyeman659I'm an Astros fan...with Aspergers. Olsen is now my new favourite player since Reggie Jackson or Lance Berkman

@hectorcastillo2670

10 ай бұрын

@@boggyeman659 right I hear you man

@nbeutler1134

10 ай бұрын

Sorry if this sounds insensitive, but how did it take them that long to try that form of communication? Or was there a lot more to it they didn't show leading up to the letterboard? It just seems kind of crazy that through 19 years of that they'd never thought to try something as simple as giving him letters?

@Erich614

10 ай бұрын

​@nbeutler1134 it's very difficult to do anything with someone nonverbal. Plus, that's likely not his only issue and they likely struggled doing pretty much everything in life so sometimes that kind of education make take a backseat for a little. Especially if he was in public school -- I have no idea how special ed teachers normally teach reading/writing to nonverbal but I do know they are understaffed, underpaid, and dealing with 8-15 other kids with similar/other issues at the same time so I can definitely imagine a scenario where he fell through the cracks

What if when Olson hits a home run the stadium went silent. To show support for the causes that matt cares dearly for. That would be a crazy moment if that were to happen in the playoffs.

@davidwilliams9489

10 ай бұрын

That would be awesome!

@DavidGonzalez-ru4uz

10 ай бұрын

Everyone make this a thing and repost this everywhere, we could make it happen. This would be awesome.

@dylanvauiso6910

10 ай бұрын

Oh man, that would be incredible. Tough to pull off, but if you spread it around enough I am sure you could make it happen.

@shamrocksisters

10 ай бұрын

Amazing idea.

Matt Olson just became my favorite Brave! My wife and I are raising our grandson. He is verbal, but autistic. Kaden is my pride and joy. I have to show him this video. I took him to his first Braves game last season.

Im not crying you’re crying. Both of these guys are legends ! Both of you keep up the excellent work !!!!!

@tylerrobinson6158

10 ай бұрын

Lol right sitting at work trying not to cry lol

@javierdaniel1429

10 ай бұрын

*Both

@blackrook1

10 ай бұрын

I'm not crying. There's dust in my eyes.

@blackrook1

10 ай бұрын

...and I ate something spicy--that's why my nose is running

@Bravesdarrell8552

10 ай бұрын

@@blackrook1 … I’m right there with you ! 😂

I’ve never bought a jersey of a player before, but will now be buying Matt’s. Not because he is about to break the Braves most home runs in a season, but because of this video and the work he’s doing outside of baseball

@boggyeman659

10 ай бұрын

Well done brother 👍✌️

@erikmiddelhoven9448

10 ай бұрын

I 100 % agree with your message, and I think I will follow suit !!!!

@Shane-sf9pv

10 ай бұрын

I think I will too, I was going to get a Bijan Robinson Falcons jersey but I need more Braves gear.

I never knew Matt in highschool but he was one grade behind me at Parkview high in Lilburn, GA. I'm so happy I get to watch a guy from my hometown play for the Braves. Amazing guy and awesome player. We love ya Matty O

I'm a Phillies fan but just gained a massive amount of respect for Matt Olson. What a beautiful effort he is making, he for sure deserves the Roberto Clemente award.

My brother is severely autistic and is nonverbal just like him, it’s amazing to see him have such a bond with him. It makes me love Olson that much more. Thx for being a great human being Matt!

Olson is the real deal. Genuinely good down to earth human being

There are still good people in this world. I was already a big fan of Matt but this makes me respect him a ton.

I am a Braves fan living in Korea. Olson is a perfect player with excellent skills, good looks, and good personality. I really want to meet you when I travel to Georgia next year!

@briangriffin69

10 ай бұрын

Never meet your heroes

When it got to the point where we became aware of his intelligence and he mentioned copernicus, I genuinely gasped and came to tears. What an amazing story.

Always knew Matt was different. We love ya man for everything you do. On and off the field! Braves country loves ya and I'm sure Reese does. Thanks for what ya do!

This is AESOME!! I’m in tears with how great this story is.

You can't help but love this guy.. The Braves got a Star....and the bond Olson and Reece have is something beautiful.

Phillies fan here……..love this story. Obviously a great player as well

Hes my MVP and My favorite person fr dude is so just down to earth, This just makes me smile fr Matt is the man

Tremendous character and someone you want in your clubhouse. Matt’s generosity should not be overlooked just because he is in a position to be generous. He has clearly gone above and beyond for a worthy cause that is evident he clearly has a deep connection to. From providing funding to Reece’s company to providing tickets to Braves games in a controlled environment shows the understanding this young man has. Congrats on a fantastic season so far Matt. I wish both you and Reece continued success on both your journeys and may the both of you continue to shine light in this world.

Olson is a great player, and a great man! I'm glad to know this story

Matty Moonbombs! The man, the myth, the legend, but most importantly, a friend.

Matt, thanks for being such a caring and valuable part of our community. We are lucky to have you. God bless you.

@darith770

10 ай бұрын

God bless indeed. God said, "I have given you every plant with seeds on the face of the earth and every tree that has fruit with seeds. This will be your food." Genesis 1:29 GO PLANT BASED!!

Gosh dang, start the day off with some feels here! So awesome!

I just became a fan of Matt Olson….. and a bigger fan of Reese ❤

It takes someone with a big heart and who doesn’t take themselves too seriously to connect with people who are different. I love to see this. Often it’s the big ego players who get the spotlight. MLB knows that these flashy players will bring young fans, but sometimes those big ego, ultra-confident guys are not good to people in their lives, not good teammates (no need to name names here, but I’m sure you can think of some) We need to highlight more players like Matt Olsen. Stories like these are amazing. And players like Olsen have the type of character that helps a team thrive.

This is a wholesome story. Matt is not only a star on the field but more importantly off of it. God bless him.

My six year old boy is completely nonverbal and I’m just hoping for a miracle that he starts talking soon. He’s so interactive he deserves to talk. The stress is overwhelming. I believe.

As a dad who has a daughter with non verbal autism, I couldn't be more proud to have this man be the 1st baseman of my favorite team. I loved him already, now I love him even more.

He's still an MVP even if baseball doesn't say so...

@vicjose

10 ай бұрын

Facts❤

Just when I thought I couldn’t like a player any more MLB goes and posts this.

Amazing, heartwarming story.

We love you Reese. All the way from the Bahamas 🇧🇸 242 to you ❤. Matt you are a great guy, my son plays little league and loves watching you.

Damn Matt! You're the man. So happy to see how much he gives back.

This testament of what he has done to help people understand autism is remarkable! A ***MUST WATCH*** !!

Okay who is cutting onions. This was a very moving piece. Good on Matt Olson.

Matt has some new fans here. Thanks for sharing this amazing story and providing a mechanism to share about autism and the non speaking community. As a parent of a non speaking child, this story means so much.

That is amazing I have an autistic daughter myself and this is inspiring, I was a Matt Olson fan before but I’m a fan for life now

He’s made a fan out of me, moved me to tears.

I was just another screaming Olson fan. Now the feeling is in my heart. What a great role model.

Love it Matt thank you, especially from a parent of an autistic child. Love seeing people with influence like you to change the outcome of so many peoples lives. Thank you.

This hits home . Our older brother has a mental condition but he is amazing and works in the kitchen detail at Piedmont Hospital ❤❤❤. You rock boy!! Thanks Matt 😊

I had no idea!!! I have so much admiration for his support of this movement! I'm so glad he's a Brave! Let's GO!!!!

BEAUTIFUL.

For a man who cant speak, he sure has a eloquent way with words. I love this so much

Not even a Braves fan, but you just gotta appreciate the talent in their everyday lineup. Glad Olson is having a great year, and his story with Reece is just heartwarming! Reece is equally amazing for what he does for the community, and I wish him nothing but health and happiness.

Like i needed another reason to rout for Matt Olson.....class act Georgia boy

Behind Acuna he’s my MVP. He’s my favorite player but now I have even more respect for him

Class act Matt Olson. Braves country loves you!

Thanks to Matt and to the MLB for bringing more awareness to Spelling to Communicate and for this great story.

What a beautiful bond. Olson has already been one of my favorite but this makes me love him more .

Wow. Really speaks volumes about the type heart this man has. This is incredible. To not only befriend but continue and even be generous to the whole community of these talented people is amazing!!!

This is amazing 👏. So much respect for Matt and the family.

When Freeman left the Braves, and I heard Olson was the new first baseman, I couldn’t have been happier. After watching this, I just became even more of an Olson fan.

Matt Olson, this is beautiful man, a role model on the field and a role model off the field. Well done and I just became an even bigger fan! Thanks for sharing this video.....

I don't know if Matt Olson is a Christian, but what he is doing shows compassion and love that Christ would have us to show to the least of these. God Bless Reece and Matt.

@aaronhogan6926

10 ай бұрын

Well said!!

I'm not crying, you're crying! This is amazing, truly.

Right in the feels...

My son is on the spectrum. This is awesome to see. I gotta take my son to matts pack and hopefully i can thank him for the inspiration

really a fan even more after learning about this. what a kind friend and good-hearted person

What a beautiful story. Thank you

Great player, even better dude.

Give him the Roberto Clemente Award

I work with kids with ASD in my field, they are awesome. Super cool that matt is a support to his friend

Matty O great on and off the field

My daughter is about to be 6 and is starting to talk and I teared up when she said you just want to know when the hurt or sick and they can't tell you it's the most frustrating thing as a parent when all you want to do is help them feel better. Not a braves fan but I truly appreciate this man and wish him a long and successful career

Pretty cool bond and special and make me admire Matt so much more as a braves fan😊

Matt olson is a class act. ❤

I’m not a huge sports fan, but Matt Olson is doing real good with his skill, fame, and money, as it should be. Reece is an inspiration. I’m glad you are with the Braves, Matt.

Truly amazing. This guy is amazing.

What a great person! 🙏

Both guys are fantastic people

What an awesome story! I’m a mom of two boys with autism and one of my sons was just diagnosed with focal epilepsy as well. My boys are non-verbal also so to see this, ahhhh just melted my heart. People with autism are so smart. My children have taught me to be a better person. Thank you Matt for your dedication to our autistic babies, this is just incredible. Oh and go Braves!!! ❤

thank you for finally giving Matt his flowers MLB

@alexlevinson8629

10 ай бұрын

That’s the best part though. I don’t know that he cares about the recognition

so heartwarming.

* Reece Blankenship is a MVP !!! Thank you and to Matt Olsen for giving hope to others. * ; )

As a father with a child with autism, this really hits home! He deserves the Clemente award, I hope to one day to be able to contribute like this family and Matt.

Damn, That made me get all watered up!! What a bond !! So proud you ate a Atlanta Brave !! Go Braves!!!

Such a blessed young man! We are on this journey also! I love hearing my sons thoughts! He is so much smarter than I am!

I'm a Rangers fan, but this is bigger than any team, bigger than baseball. HUGE respect for Matt Olson. What an absolute class act. My little brother is autistic and this video brought me to tears.

My daughter has autism as well and low on the spectrum. Matt, thank you for what you do. You have a big heart. Go Braves!

That’s my first baseman. Great work, Matt!

My son has autism and I showed him this video last night and he said, "Now I really want to go to a Braves game with you, even though it's loud and lots of people." Matt Olson you have gained hero status.

awesome story, def one of my favorite players now

Omg, what a heartwarming story ❤

Go Matt! You're the best!

Gives me chills

This is beyond beautiful!!

Wow what a guy, so much respect for Matt.

Matt Olson is a W on and off the field.

Just when you thought there was no way to like Matt Olson anymore than ya already did..

Bless your heart matt Olson.

As a tigers fan and someone with autism Matt Olsen is a great man

I am proud of you Matt.

Love ya Matt thank you

Such An inspiring tale