Charlie Morton DFA’d by Tigers, Signs With Braves for a Poetic Final Chapter
DETROIT — Charlie Morton’s winding baseball journey took another dramatic turn on September 21 when the Detroit Tigers designated the 41-year-old right-hander for assignment, ending a brief and rocky stint that produced a 7.09 ERA since the trade deadline. Hours later, the two-time World Series champion found a familiar landing spot, agreeing to a major league deal with the Atlanta Braves for what could be the final act of his 17-year career.
The move surprised many around the league, but Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris said it was a necessary decision as the club chases a late-season Wild Card berth. “We have to prioritize winning games right now,” Harris explained. “This was a tough call, but it’s about giving our team the best chance to reach the postseason.”
Morton acknowledged the disappointment but remained characteristically professional. “I’m disappointed, of course,” he said. “But I understand the Tigers need to win now. I’m grateful for the opportunity they gave me.”
Morton’s struggles in Detroit stood in contrast to his reputation as a dependable veteran. After being acquired in a midseason deal, he never found his rhythm, allowing too many walks and failing to miss bats with the consistency that defined his peak years. Over seven appearances, he yielded 22 earned runs in 28 innings, far from the steady presence the Tigers envisioned when they made the trade.
Still, Morton’s career résumé speaks for itself. He is a two-time World Series winner—first with the Houston Astros in 2017 and again with Atlanta in 2021—and has long been celebrated for his ability to deliver in October. Braves fans fondly remember his gritty performance in the 2021 World Series when he recorded outs on a broken leg, an image that became a symbol of perseverance.
Now, Morton’s homecoming offers a fitting bookend. Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos called the signing “a special opportunity” and said Morton will work in a flexible role, either starting or coming out of the bullpen, during the season’s final weeks. Manager Brian Snitker added, “Charlie is a Brave forever. Having him back, especially at this point in his career, means a lot to everyone here.”
Morton’s leadership could prove as valuable as his innings. Atlanta’s rotation is anchored by Spencer Strider, a nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, and left-hander Chris Sale, who owns a sparkling 2.35 ERA and is in the Cy Young conversation. Morton’s presence adds both depth and experience as the Braves prepare for another postseason run.
On social platform X, reactions to the DFA were swift and emotional. Some Tigers fans called the move “Scott Harris’s biggest mistake,” lamenting the loss of a veteran voice. Braves supporters, meanwhile, flooded timelines with excitement and nostalgia, welcoming back a pitcher who helped deliver their most recent championship.
For Morton, the reunion with Atlanta may serve as the perfect final chapter. He has hinted that retirement could come at season’s end, and finishing where he earned a title feels like the ideal send-off. “To end my career here, where I have so many great memories, is something I’ll cherish,” Morton said in a brief statement.
As he prepares to take the mound again in a Braves uniform, Morton’s career comes full circle: a quiet professional whose resilience and postseason heroics have left an indelible mark on every clubhouse he entered.
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