BREAKING: Braves Turn to Veteran Ace Charlie Morton for Pivotal Series Finale
ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves will hand the ball to a familiar big-game arm as they close out a crucial series: 41-year-old Charlie Morton, the steady veteran whose postseason pedigree has made him a fixture in October baseball.
Morton is scheduled to start the series finale against a surging division rival on Wednesday night, giving Atlanta a chance to seal a statement win and keep their playoff positioning strong. For a team with championship aspirations, the decision is as much about leadership as it is about talent.
“Charlie is built for games like this,” manager Brian Snitker said after Tuesday’s workout at Truist Park. “He’s been through every kind of postseason atmosphere and never flinches. We trust him to set the tone.”
Morton’s career has been defined by late-blooming brilliance and postseason heroics. He famously clinched Game 7 of the 2017 World Series for the Houston Astros, anchored the Tampa Bay Rays’ rotation during their 2020 pennant run, and delivered critical October innings for Atlanta’s 2021 championship team. His combination of a heavy curveball and a fearless approach continues to frustrate hitters even as he enters his forties.
This season has been no different. Morton has logged a 3.62 ERA with 175 strikeouts in 28 starts, proving that age has hardly dimmed his competitive edge. His spin-heavy curveball remains one of baseball’s most effective out pitches, and his ability to mix in a mid-90s fastball keeps hitters guessing.
Teammates speak reverently of his influence. “He’s like a second pitching coach in the clubhouse,” said reliever A.J. Minter. “Young guys watch how he prepares and realize that’s what it takes to win in October.”
For Morton, the assignment is another chance to embrace the moment. “Every game matters this time of year,” he said. “It’s about giving us the best shot to win and keeping our focus on the bigger goal.”
The Braves’ offense has done its part, powered by MVP candidate Ronald Acuña Jr. and a deep lineup that leads the league in home runs. But with the division race tightening and postseason seeding at stake, Morton’s start carries added weight. A win would not only secure the series but also send a message to potential playoff opponents that Atlanta’s veteran core remains formidable.
Fans at Truist Park are expected to pack the stands, many wearing Morton’s No. 50 jersey in tribute to his steadying presence. From the bullpen to the bleachers, confidence in the veteran is palpable.
“Charlie’s not just a pitcher,” Snitker added. “He’s a tone-setter. When he’s on the mound, everyone relaxes.”
As the Braves chase another deep postseason run, the sight of Morton walking to the mound for the series finale serves as a reminder of the value of experience. The stakes are high, the lights will be bright, and few pitchers are better equipped for that stage than the man who has thrived under pressure for more than a decade.
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