Braves to Honor Charlie Morton With Special Sunday Start
ATLANTA — When the Atlanta Braves take the field on Sunday for the final game of the regular season, all eyes will be on veteran right-hander Charlie Morton. The 40-year-old pitcher, a steadying presence in the Braves’ rotation for the last four seasons, will start in what the club is calling an “honorary” outing—a chance to celebrate his contributions and leadership as the team turns toward another postseason run.
Manager Brian Snitker confirmed the plan after Saturday’s workout, noting that the decision is as much about appreciation as it is about preparation. “Charlie has meant so much to this clubhouse,” Snitker said. “This is an opportunity for fans and teammates to recognize everything he’s brought to us—on the mound and off.”
Morton, who signed with Atlanta before the 2021 season and helped the Braves capture a World Series title that year, has been a model of consistency and mentorship. Even as younger arms like Spencer Strider and Bryce Elder emerged, Morton remained a trusted presence, offering not only innings but wisdom.
“This is where I want to be,” Morton said Saturday. “I’m grateful for every start, every chance to compete with these guys. Sunday is about the team, not me, but I’m honored.”
The game itself will have limited playoff implications for the Braves, who have already secured their postseason spot and are focused on setting their rotation for the Division Series. Snitker said Morton will likely throw just a few innings to stay sharp while preserving energy for October.
“It’s about keeping him fresh and giving the fans a chance to show their appreciation,” Snitker explained.
Morton’s career arc is the stuff of baseball lore. After bouncing between teams early in his career, he reinvented himself in his mid-30s, adding velocity and refining a devastating curveball that became his signature pitch. Stints in Houston and Tampa Bay produced All-Star appearances and postseason heroics, culminating in his arrival in Atlanta, where he anchored a staff that carried the Braves back to championship glory.
“Charlie has been a rock for us,” said first baseman Matt Olson. “Young pitchers learn so much from him—how to prepare, how to handle the ups and downs. He’s the ultimate professional.”
Fans are expected to fill Truist Park well before first pitch, many wearing Morton jerseys and holding signs of appreciation. The Braves plan a brief pregame ceremony to recognize his milestones, including more than 130 career wins and a reputation as one of the sport’s best big-game pitchers.
For Morton, the night will be another chapter in a career defined by perseverance and late-career excellence. He hasn’t announced any plans beyond this season, but his impact on the Braves is already secure.
“I just want to soak it all in,” Morton said. “The energy here is special. Whatever happens next, I’m proud to be a part of this team’s story.”
When Morton steps to the mound Sunday, every pitch will carry the weight of gratitude from teammates, coaches, and the Atlanta faithful—a fitting tribute to a pitcher who has given the Braves far more than just innings.
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