Charlie Morton to Make Final Appearance for Braves

Atlanta, GA, September 25, 2025

News Summary

Charlie Morton is poised to make his potential final appearance in a Braves uniform during the season finale against the Pirates. After a challenging 2025 season, this game signifies a tribute to Morton’s contributions, especially his role in the Braves’ 2021 World Series victory. The matchup serves as a fitting farewell for the veteran pitcher who began his career with the Braves in 2002. With both teams out of playoff contention, the focus will be on honoring Morton rather than postseason implications.

Atlanta, GA – Charlie Morton is set to make what could be his final appearance of his career in a Braves uniform during the 2025 season finale on Sunday against the Pirates. The Atlanta Braves confirmed that Morton will debut for the 2025 season in this last game, likely pitching for about an inning before Chris Sale takes over on the mound.

Mark Bowman reported the news via social media on Thursday afternoon. Throughout the 2025 season, Morton has posted a 5.89 ERA and a 4.97 FIP across 26 starts, working with both the Orioles and Tigers. Both the Braves and the Pirates find themselves out of postseason contention, making this appearance more about honoring Morton than securing a competitive advantage.

Morton holds a significant place in Braves history, being part of the influential squad from the 2021 World Series-winning team. Allowing Morton to finish his career in a Braves uniform is viewed as a classy move by the franchise, marking a more fitting farewell than signing a one-day contract to retire. Prior to his return to the Braves, Morton was designated for assignment (DFA) by the Tigers, which allowed him this opportunity to conclude his career with the organization that originally drafted him in 2002.

Morton made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the Braves in 2008. He has also played for the Pirates, Astros, and Rays before returning to the Braves in 2021. In his recent four seasons with Atlanta, he made at least 30 starts each year, accumulating a total of 686 1/3 innings with an impressive 3.87 ERA.

Although Morton has not officially announced his retirement, there are strong indications that he may be planning to do so shortly. In January 2025, he signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Orioles. However, he struggled to find form, registering a 10.89 ERA through five starts with the Orioles before being traded to the Tigers. Morton moved to the bullpen after a series of poor performances but regained a rotation spot, later improving to a 3.88 ERA in his 11 starts from late May until the trade deadline.

His time with the Tigers saw a mix of results, starting strong with a 3.63 ERA in his first four outings before faltering, eventually posting a 12.75 ERA in his last four starts. Morton faced a disappointing exit from the Tigers, failing to make it out of the second inning in his last appearance, where he was booed by fans.

This game serves as a homecoming of sorts for Morton, who was initially signed by the Braves in 2002. To accommodate Morton’s return, the Braves made corresponding roster moves, sending Jhancarlos Lara to Triple-A Gwinnett and designating Carson Ragsdale for assignment.

Key Milestones of Charlie Morton’s Career

• Original team – Atlanta Braves (drafted in 2002)
• MLB debut with Braves – 2008
• Part of Braves’ 2021 World Series-winning team
• Recent four-season performance with Braves – 30 starts each year, 3.87 ERA over 686 1/3 innings
• 2025 season statistics – 5.89 ERA, 4.97 FIP across 26 starts with Orioles and Tigers

Upcoming Appearance Details

• Opponent – Pittsburgh Pirates
• Date – Sunday, 2025 season finale
• Likely pitching duration – Approximately one inning

Background Context

Charlie’s return to the Braves marks a significant moment, as he seeks to conclude his lengthy career where it all began. With both teams not contending for the playoffs, this matchup provides a perfect opportunity to honor a player with a storied background.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Orioles Edge Braves in Close Contest

Additional Resources

• MLB: Charlie Morton Signs with Braves
• Wikipedia: Charlie Morton
• Battery Power: Charlie Morton Will Start Series Finale
• Google Search: Charlie Morton Braves
• Detroit News: Braves to Give Charlie Morton a Proper Sendoff
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlie Morton

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.