Braves Sign Charlie Morton: Veteran Ace Returning to Atlanta Rotation

The Atlanta Braves made a sentimental move, bringing veteran pitcher Charlie Morton back on a major league deal after his release from the Detroit Tigers.

At 41, Morton returns not because the Braves are chasing wins—they’re already out of playoff contention—but to let the two-time All-Star finish his career where he’s had some of his best moments.

Morton hasn’t officially retired, but this move sure feels like a possible farewell tour for one of Atlanta’s most respected arms.

A Full-Circle Moment for Charlie Morton

Morton’s connection with the Braves goes back decades. Atlanta drafted him in 2002, and he made his MLB debut with them before moving on to other teams.

He came back to the club in 2021. Over the next four seasons, he became a reliable part of the rotation, throwing more than 686 innings with a 3.87 ERA and making at least 30 starts each year.

By signing him now, Atlanta’s giving Morton the chance to walk away on his own terms—on the mound at Truist Park, not in another uniform.

A Rough Road Through 2025

This season hasn’t been easy for Morton. He started 2025 with the Baltimore Orioles, but his first five games produced a rough 10.89 ERA.

After a move to the bullpen, he struggled but then found a groove in the summer, posting a 3.88 ERA over 11 starts.

Baltimore traded him—and some cash—to the Detroit Tigers at the deadline. Things looked promising at first in Detroit, but that didn’t last.

Detroit Stint Ends on a Sour Note

Morton’s time with the Tigers fell apart in August and September. His command vanished, walking nearly 20% of opposing batters and putting up a 12.75 ERA over his last four outings.

In his final game for Detroit, he couldn’t get out of the second inning and got booed off the field by home fans. Soon after, he cleared waivers and his future looked uncertain—until Atlanta called.

A Symbolic Signing

Manager Brian Snitker confirmed the signing. Morton’s current form doesn’t really point to a late-season spark, but the Braves care more about what this reunion means emotionally.

His legacy in Atlanta includes deep postseason runs and leadership in the clubhouse—qualities that deserve a respectful send-off, if you ask me.

Why This Reunion Matters to Braves Fans

Morton played a big part in some of the franchise’s most competitive recent years. Between 2021 and 2024 he was:

• A dependable starter making 30-plus starts each season
• A key postseason performer
• A mentor to younger pitchers
• A steady presence, even as age took its toll

Watching him finish his career with “Atlanta” on his jersey gives fans a sense of closure. That era had its share of both triumph and heartbreak.

Will Morton Pitch Again This Year?

No one really knows if Morton will pitch again in 2025. The Braves might give him one more start or a relief appearance at home, just so fans can show their appreciation.

Whether that happens or not, it’s obvious the team wants to make sure he leaves the game with dignity.

Final Thoughts

Charlie Morton’s return to Atlanta might not shake up the standings. Still, in baseball, these moments mean more than just wins or losses.

They show how much the sport values its veterans and the stories they create. Morton’s journey—starting as a draft pick, growing into an ace, then battling as a 41-year-old—really comes full circle here.

If this is his last ride, Atlanta feels like the perfect place for a goodbye. After all, these are the fans who’ve stood by him through every twist and turn.

 
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