When it comes to veteran pitchers, Charlie Morton has consistently been a name that sparks intrigue—and now, at 41 years old, he’s setting the stage for one more season in Major League Baseball, provided the stars align just right.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Morton is keeping an eye out for “the right team” as he considers free agency for the 2025 season. This follows an earlier report from ESPN’s Jeff Passan that Morton has no plans to retire just yet.
The seasoned right-hander has been a familiar face in the Atlanta Braves rotation, especially during their successful runs in 2021 and 2023. However, 2024 proved to be a bumpier ride for the two-time All-Star. Morton wrapped up the season with an 8-10 record, posting a 4.19 ERA and a 1.325 WHIP over 30 starts.
While his 9.1 strikeouts per nine innings were still solid, it marked his lowest strikeout rate since 2015. He struck out 167 batters over 165.1 innings, though his 65 walks showed a level of command that wasn’t quite what it used to be.
Morton is Reliable but Struggled Late in Season
Morton’s struggles were especially pronounced in the latter part of the season. Over his final 10 starts, his ERA ballooned to 4.73, and he surrendered nine home runs during that stretch. His track record as a reliable innings-eater and rotation mainstay keeps his value intact for teams in need of stability.
A return to the Braves might not be in the cards this time. Jayson Stark of The Athletic noted on Dec. 12 that the lack of communication between Morton and Atlanta suggests he may be looking elsewhere. With the free-agent pitching market tightening, Morton’s focus on finding the “right environment” adds a layer of strategy to his next move.
As teams assess their options for the 2025 season, Morton stands as a unique option. He’s a proven veteran who can bring leadership, experience, and a steady arm to the right team. The baseball world waits to see where this seasoned competitor will land.
