The Atlanta Braves, while managing to claw their way back above .500 in the NL East, still seem to be missing a key piece particularly on the pitching front. One can’t help but look back at the offseason departures, especially on the mound.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles have had a nightmare of a season, sitting at 15-28 and recently parting ways with manager Brandon Hyde. His firing likely won’t solve their deeper issues, but it may mark the beginning of a broader shake-up in Baltimore.
If the Orioles decide to begin a rebuild or at least shift focus to the future, one name the Braves could look at is veteran pitcher Charlie Morton.
Braves Could Reunite with Charlie Morton if Orioles Continue to Falter
Morton, 41, signed a one-year, $15 million deal with Baltimore in the offseason as a replacement for Corbin Burnes a move that hasn’t worked out. In 11 appearances (six starts), Morton holds a bloated 8.25 ERA and a 1.88 WHIP, signaling a rough stretch for the veteran.
While age is certainly a factor he’s 41, after all his struggles might also stem from a poor team fit. Morton was a steady presence in Atlanta’s rotation last season and several years before that. Perhaps the move to Baltimore simply didn’t pan out.
Interestingly, both Braves and Orioles fans would likely welcome a reunion, even if it’s under the radar. Morton is currently 0-7, and if Baltimore chooses to cut ties, Atlanta could offer him a minor league deal with an opportunity to work his way back up.
It’s unclear how much longer Morton wants to pitch he nearly retired last offseason but if he continues playing into 2025, Atlanta seems like a logical landing spot. Familiarity and comfort with the organization make it an appealing destination.
With both Morton and Max Fried having departed in free agency, the Braves are still in need of pitching depth. While Morton may not crack the rotation ahead of younger arms like Bryce Elder or AJ Smith-Shawver, he could serve as a valuable long-relief option or injury insurance.
Given the ongoing instability in Atlanta’s rotation — with Spencer Strider limited to one start and the health histories of Chris Sale and Reynaldo López — bringing Morton back could provide some veteran security. Atlanta remains a more viable contender than Baltimore, which should appeal to Morton at this stage in his career.
All signs point to a possible reunion being a sensible move for both sides.
