The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant move to strengthen their pitching rotation by signing veteran right-hander Charlie Morton to a one-year contract. This decision comes on the heels of losing ace Corbin Burnes to free agency, prompting the team to seek a reliable replacement.
Morton, a seasoned 41-year-old with 17 years of experience, had a solid 2024 season with the Atlanta Braves, recording an 8-10 record complemented by a 4.19 ERA, 167 strikeouts, and 65 walks over 30 starts. His durability is notable, as he has consistently made at least 30 starts in every full season since 2018, showcasing his resilience even in the latter stages of his career.
A third-round draft pick by the Braves in 2002, Morton has had a varied career with stints in multiple teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies, Houston Astros, and Tampa Bay Rays. His career stats reflect his effectiveness, with a record of 138-123 in 383 games, a 4.01 ERA, and over 2,000 strikeouts.
In 2019, Morton achieved a standout season with the Rays, finishing with a 16-6 record and a 3.05 ERA, which earned him a spot as a finalist for the American League Cy Young Award and his second consecutive All-Star selection. To accommodate Morton on the 40-man roster, the Orioles designated catcher Rene Pinto for assignment.
