He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a catcher from 1989 to 1993 for the Minnesota Twins and the Atlanta Braves.

Olson was selected to the 1990 National League All-Star team and appeared in the 1991 World Series with the Braves.

In 1992, Olson was having a career year until a collision with Ken Caminiti of the Houston Astros broke his right leg.

Olson played one more year for Atlanta before being released in the off season to make room for rising prospect Javy López.

Olson signed with the New York Mets for the 1994 season but was released following spring training, leading to his retirement.