Charlie Morton’s Extension a Good Move by Atlanta Braves

The Atlanta Braves had an eventful Friday. They moved into a tie for first place with the Mets and announced an extension for veteran pitcher Charlie Morton.

The Atlanta Braves announced Friday that veteran starting pitcher Charlie Morton will be a part of the rotation in 2023 and potentially beyond.

Just prior to the start of the highly anticipated showdown with the Mets, the Braves announced they had signed Morton to a one-year deal worth $20 million next season and a club option for 2024.

Charlie Morton started his career with the Braves and it appears he will be ending it with them. He was drafted in the third round of the 2002 draft. The 2024 option could take him through his age-40 season in Atlanta.

Since signing with the Braves prior to last season, Morton has left his mark on Atlanta history. In 2021, Morton went 14-6 with a 3.34 ERA while starting 33 games. He struck out 216 batters in 185.2 innings. He played a key role in leading the team to the 2021 World Championship.

While he got off to a rocky first half this season, he ranks sixth in the NL in strikeouts with 200 in just 167.2 innings. He currently ranks third in strikeouts per 9 IP, among qualified pitchers.

Through his first 12 starts, Morton struggled to a 5.67 ERA. He appeared to have figured out a mechanical issue and turned a corner. Beginning on June 17th on the road against the Cubs, Morton pitched seven innings of shutout baseball allowing three hits, no walks, and fanning nine. From that game on, Morton has gone 10-8 with a 3.52 ERA, striking out 134 in 107.1 IP.

The slow start might be attributed to his age, the lack of spring training, or recovery from a fractured fibula suffered in the World Series last season. Regardless, none of these issues are currently affecting his performance as we barrel toward the postseason, where Morton really shines.

With his performance this year, Morton has become the first pitcher since John Smoltz in 1996 and 1997 to post consecutive 200-strikeout seasons for Atlanta.

Alex Anthopoulos isn’t just keeping Morton around for his on-field production, his clubhouse leadership is highly valued in Atlanta. Anthopoulos brings back a leader and continues to show that he doesn’t shy away from extending and securing players who have and will continue to contribute.

If you were wondering what the Braves could possibly do with that $20 million coming off the books, here’s your answer. We are bringing back Charlie Morton. Keeping the clubhouse intact by preserving the presence of a postseason hero and steady veteran leadership. It’s a low-risk move for the Braves. Trust Anthopoulos.