WATCH: Matt Olson hits two homeruns versus the Red Sox

The Braves first baseman provided plenty of fireworks on the Braves trip to Ft. Myers

The Atlanta Braves uncharacteristically sent mostly regulars on the bus ride to Ft. Myers to take on the Boston Red Sox in Grapefruit League action on Friday. 

First baseman Matt Olson made the trip worth his time. 

The slugger hit two towering home runs, the second leaving the ballpark, as the Braves built an early lead against the Red Sox.   

Have a day, @mattolson21! #BravesST pic.twitter.com/w6kk7dBzpa

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) March 17, 2023

The slugger, acquired before the season last year for prospects Shea Langeliers, Cristian Pache, Ryan Cusick and Joey Estes, signed an eight-year extension the day after joining the franchise and thrived in his new home, playing in every game and batting .240/.325/.477 with 34 homeruns and 103 RBIs. 

Also impressive on the mound was prospect Jared Shuster, earning the start as he battles Dylan Dodd for the final rotation spot. Shuster threw four scoreless innings, with three hits, one walk, and seven strikeouts. 

Jared Shuster's 7Ks in 4 IP. pic.twitter.com/KZQeKlDzWy

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) March 17, 2023

The duel between Shuster and Dodd will be closely watched, as there's been lots of speculation about the fifth starter's spot on this team after, in a somewhat surprising move, preseason favorites Bryce Elder and Ian Anderson were both optioned to AAA earlier this week.

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