Veteran pitcher Charlie Morton has joined the Baltimore Orioles, signing a one-year deal worth $15 million. This agreement comes as the team seeks to address gaps in their rotation after losing some key players in the off-season.
Charlie Morton, a seasoned right-handed pitcher at 41, has signed a one-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles, valued at $15 million. Morton’s addition aims to fill a critical vacancy in the Orioles’ pitching lineup, particularly after the departure of their 2024 ace, Corbin Burnes, who has moved on to Arizona with a lucrative $210 million deal.
Morton’s career spans 18 major league seasons. Known for his pivotal role in the 2017 World Series Game 7 victory with the Houston Astros, he continues to bring experience and resilience to the field. In the previous season with the Atlanta Braves, Morton pitched 165 1/3 innings, achieving an 8-10 record with a 4.19 ERA. His career portfolio includes time with teams such as the Tampa Bay Rays, Philadelphia Phillies, and Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Orioles have actively sought veteran pitchers on short-term contracts under the guidance of their general manager, Mike Elias. This strategy has been part of Elias’s approach to maintain a competitive edge while navigating changes in team dynamics. Earlier this off-season, the Orioles also secured Tomoyuki Sugano from Japan on a one-year, $13 million deal, indicating a continued investment in bolstering their pitching staff.
Morton stands out as one of four pitchers with consistent performances, having started at least 30 games in each full season since 2018, excluding the pandemic-interrupted 2020 season. This reliability, alongside his solid record of 138-123 and a commendable 3.87 ERA over the last four years with the Braves, underscores his potential contribution to the Orioles.
In a corresponding move to accommodate Morton on their roster, the Orioles have designated catcher Rene Pinto for assignment. This decision reflects the team’s strategic focus on pitching as they prepare for another competitive season. Despite playoff appearances in the last two years, the Orioles were unable to progress beyond their initial series, a hurdle they aim to overcome in the upcoming season.
By signing Charlie Morton, the Baltimore Orioles reinforce their rotation with a veteran presence, hoping to leverage his experience for a more successful postseason run. Morton’s track record promises to add depth and stability to the Orioles’ lineup, aligning with their strategy to blend seasoned talent with emerging players.
Source: News4jax
