Braves Reunite With Charlie Morton After Tigers DFA, Adding Veteran Depth for October Push
ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves turned heads across Major League Baseball on Tuesday, bringing back a familiar face for the stretch run. Veteran right-hander Charlie Morton, designated for assignment by the Detroit Tigers earlier this week, is returning to the club where he helped capture a World Series title in 2021.
Morton, 40, wasted little time making his intentions clear. “Atlanta feels like home,” he said shortly after the deal became official. “If I can help this team chase another championship, I’m all in.”
The move gives the Braves a proven starter and postseason veteran at a critical moment. Atlanta’s rotation has endured injuries and inconsistency during the late summer grind, and adding Morton provides both experience and a reliable arm as the playoffs approach. Over 17 big-league seasons, he owns a 4.00 career ERA and a reputation for thriving when the stakes rise, highlighted by memorable October outings with the Astros and Braves.
President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos called Morton’s return “a perfect fit,” citing his steady presence and leadership. “Charlie knows how to navigate the biggest games,” Anthopoulos said. “His ability to keep the clubhouse calm and focused is just as important as what he does on the mound.”
Morton began the year with Detroit after signing a one-year deal, but the Tigers shifted toward younger arms as they fell out of contention. In 15 starts, he posted a 4.21 ERA with 89 strikeouts in 86 innings. Scouts say his trademark curveball still has bite, and his fastball velocity remains in the mid-90s—a combination the Braves believe can neutralize tough National League lineups in October.
Manager Brian Snitker welcomed the addition with enthusiasm. “We know exactly what Charlie brings,” Snitker said. “He competes, he prepares, and he understands what it takes to win in the postseason.”
For Braves fans, the signing is more than a transaction; it is a reunion with a key figure from the franchise’s most recent championship run. Social media lit up moments after the announcement, with highlights of Morton’s clutch performances in the 2021 playoffs circulating widely. One fan summed up the mood on X: “Charlie back in a Braves uniform? That’s October magic waiting to happen.”
Atlanta currently holds one of the National League’s top records and is aiming for another deep postseason run. Morton’s arrival adds depth to a rotation that already features Spencer Strider and Max Fried, creating a formidable trio if all stay healthy. His ability to mentor young pitchers could prove just as valuable as any innings he throws.
Morton’s career has been defined by resilience, from early struggles to becoming a trusted playoff performer. Now, back in Atlanta, he has the chance to close the circle where he enjoyed one of his greatest triumphs. “It feels special to come back here,” Morton said. “The goal is the same as always—win the last game of the season.”
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