A's first baseman Olson selected to 2021 AL All-Star team

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Athletics first baseman Matt Olson has been selected to the 2021 American League All-Star team.

The 27-year-old was named as a reserve and is humbled by the honor.

“Definitely something you dream about as a little kid, being in the All-Star Game one day,” Olson told reporters Sunday. “It’s a special moment, I think you guys know I’m kind of a win-first guy and let everything else fall into place. I do truly believe that.”

Olson is slashing .282/.370/.554 with a .924 OPS. He also hit 20 home runs and 53 RBI.

“It’s going to be cool to have this moment and reflect back on it,” Olson said.

Olson, who earned his first career All-Star selection, found out the news from manager Bob Melvin and said he was happy even though the A’s are struggling right now.

“We haven’t been playing the best baseball and I think that’s number one priority, but like I said that’ll be a cool moment to have and look back on,” Olson said.

There’s a chance other A’s join him in Denver, Co., and starers Chris Bassitt and Sean Manaea are the likely candidates who come to mind. 

“Bassitt and Manaea, especially this last month, Manaea has been lights out and Bassitt since honestly since the start of last year has been as solid as a starter as there’s been,” Olson said. 

“I hope they can find a way to get them there, too.”

The entire team has been lobbying for the two-time Gold Glove Award winner to secure an All-Star selection since the beginning of the season.

RELATED: Melvin would like to see Olson in 2021 Home Run Derby

“It’s cool to hear guys say nice things and we got a great group of guys,” Olson said. “I’m humbled and honored to play with them and go out there and grind with them every day.”

Olson says he looks forward to the festivities during the All-Star Week and plans to soak it all in. 

The game takes place on Tuesday, July 13 at Coors Field.

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