“Baltimore’s Bold Move: Orioles Ink Top Free Agent Charlie Morton in Stunning Coup”
**Orioles Sign Charlie Morton to One-Year Deal**
The Baltimore Orioles have added some veteran depth to their rotation by signing right-hander Charlie Morton to a one-year contract. According to reports, the deal is worth a guaranteed $15 million. This move frees up a spot on the 40-man roster, and the team has designated catcher Rene Pinto for assignment.
Morton, who turned 41 in November, is entering his 18th season in Major League Baseball and his sixth team overall. In his previous four seasons with the Atlanta Braves, he has posted a combined 3.87 ERA in 124 starts. While his ERA has decreased slightly over the past few years, Morton has managed to avoid the kind of decline that often occurs in pitchers in their 40s.
Last season, Morton appeared in 30 games, pitching 165.1 innings, with a 4.19 ERA. He has consistently started 30 games or more per season over the past four years, and his strikeout rate has remained high, at 23.8%, while his walk rate has been around 9.3%. Morton’s performance in 2024 was that of a solid fourth starter, although he struggled in the second half, with a 4.37 ERA and a lofty .279/.357/.469 batting line against him.
Morton’s fastball velocity has remained stable, averaging 94 mph last season, while his curveball, which averages 81.5 mph, has continued to be an effective weapon, with opponents hitting just .200 against it. His secondary pitches have been consistent, and he has maintained a high strikeout rate, which is above the league average for a starting pitcher.
Morton’s age and performance in 2024 make him a solid addition to the Orioles’ rotation. With the signing, he becomes the second veteran pitcher to join the team, following the addition of Tomoyuki Sugano, a 35-year-old Japanese pitcher who signed a one-year deal worth $13 million.
The Orioles still have work to do to complete their rotation, with starters Zach Eflin and Grayson Rodriguez impending, and potentially looking to add another impact arm to the top of the staff. They are also considering trading for starters such as Luis Castillo and Dylan Seth.
**Frequently Asked Questions**
Q: How much is Charlie Morton’s contract worth?
A: The contract is worth a guaranteed $15 million.
Q: What team did Charlie Morton play for previously?
A: Morton played for the Atlanta Braves for the past four seasons.
Q: How many startes has Charlie Morton made over the past four years?
A: Morton has started 30 or more games per season over the past four years.
Q: What is Charlie Morton’s fastball velocity?
A: His fastball averages 94 mph.
Q: What is Charlie Morton’s curveball velocity?
A: His curveball averages 81.5 mph.
**Conclusion**
The Orioles have added a veteran presence to their rotation with the signing of Charlie Morton. The 41-year-old right-hander brings experience and consistency to the team, with a strong track record of performance over the past few years. While he may not be the ace of the staff, Morton should provide a solid anchor for the Orioles’ rotation. With the signing of Tomoyuki Sugano, the team is building a strong rotation, but they still have work to do to add an impact arm to the top of the staff.
