Matt Olson's casual behind-the-back play left the Phillies' Brandon Marsh completely baffled
Braves first baseman Matt Olson is a two-time Gold Glove Award winner, so his defensive prowess has been obvious for much of his career. But it turns out that he could also make a case for playing with the Savannah Bananas.
The trick play game was on point.
During Sunday’s game against the NL East-leading Phillies, Brandon Marsh was left stunned when a would-be, extra-base hit turned into a ground out thanks to Olson’s heads-up play. Marsh’s sharp grounder took an unusual hop, and Olson found himself running past the ball’s path. But in a split second, he reached behind his back to field the grounder and make the play.
Your first basemen can't do this. pic.twitter.com/oPyC7BYybX
— CJ (@CJNitkowski) July 7, 2024
A behind-the-back play will never look more casual than that one. The exchange between Olson and Marsh was also great. The Phillies outfielder was genuinely confused how that happened, and Olson jokingly tipped his cap as if it was his plan all along to go behind the back.
Braves 1B Matt Olson with the behind the back… no look defensive play
— Zach Klein (@ZachKleinWSB) July 7, 2024
MLB fans also enjoyed the play and Marsh’s reaction. Olson is ready for Banana Ball.
This was how Twitter/X reacted
Matt Olson been watching a ton of Banana Baseball Highlights https://t.co/npnP0i6Dtz
— No More Fielders (@nomorefielders) July 7, 2024
Put him on the Savannah Bananas https://t.co/uFjlWKEozX
— Alex Kolstee (@alex_kolstee) July 7, 2024
I have personally watched 20,000 baseball games
Every game you see something you have never seen before @ChrisAdamsWall https://t.co/BDzLDJCEhv
— RaysFanGio (@RaysFanGio) July 7, 2024
when things are good, they are GOOD https://t.co/wk0xe740Wv
— hostile general (@rckdrchrdsn) July 7, 2024
Normal Atlanta Braves things https://t.co/gIx84hOIvU
— FalchionWielder (@FalcionWielder) July 7, 2024
Ok this team has swag again https://t.co/pS9Iqo6Oge
— Jason (@GILLYganzIsland) July 7, 2024