Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker said last month that Charlie Morton had been pitching so well, “he could pitch until he’s like 60.”
Snitker was only joking about Morton, but the veteran pitcher will now get a chance to play at least into his 40s. The Braves announced Friday they had re-signed the 38-year-old right-hander to a one-year deal worth $20 million for 2023. It also includes an option for the club for the 2024 season.
The Atlanta #Braves today signed RHP Charlie Morton to a one-year contract worth $20 million for the 2023 season, with a $20 million club option for 2024 that does not include a buyout. pic.twitter.com/BnNgQmcv5q
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) September 30, 2022
Given the value of good starting pitching, it’s a sound investment for the Braves. Morton, who turns 39 in November, is 9-6 this season with a 4.29 ERA and 1.205 WHIP. His season is all the more impressive given his recovery from a broken fibula suffered in Game 1 of the World Series last year.
“I really do feel better than I used to,” Morton told MLB.com last month after an 11-strikeout performance against the Houston Astros. “I feel better now than I did when I was in my late 20s and early 30s. That’s probably because of adjustments I’ve made with my workout routine. I focus more on my recovery.”
Morton, who debuted at age 24, has definitely been a late bloomer, reaching new career heights in his mid-to-late 30s. That includes all-star appearances in 2018 and 2019.
Charlie Morton was 46-71 with a 4.54 ERA going into his age-33 season.
He has since gone 70-30 with a 3.52 ERA, made 2 All-Star Games, won 2 World Series, and will now potentially pitch into his age-40 season. https://t.co/ZdrmRghaWW
— Danny Vietti (@DannyVietti) September 30, 2022
