Charlie Morton Returns to Atlanta as Orioles Face Braves in Weekend Series
ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The Atlanta Braves are set for a reunion of sorts on Friday, July 4, as they kick off a three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles at Truist Park.
Pitching for the Orioles will be a familiar face — 41-year-old Charlie Morton. The veteran right-hander, now with Baltimore (37-49), brings a 5.63 ERA and 1.57 WHIP over 18 outings this season, including 12 starts. As the All-Star break approaches, the Orioles are eager to gain traction, and Morton will play a key role.
Before joining Baltimore’s rotation, Morton spent pivotal years with the Braves (39-47). Drafted by Atlanta in the third round back in 2002, he debuted in the majors in 2008 and later returned in 2021, helping lead the Braves to their most recent World Series title.
“I’ve always been a huge fan of Charlie,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “I admire his professionalism, his consistency, and the career he’s built. He’s a great person. I really wish we could’ve brought him back.”
During his five total seasons with Atlanta (2008, 2021–2024), Morton logged a 4.09 ERA across 761 innings. In the Braves’ 2021 championship run, he was a major contributor, recording a 3.34 ERA in 33 starts during the regular season and a 3.32 ERA across four postseason outings.
Morton also played a mentorship role for young Atlanta pitchers, especially Spencer Strider — who is set to start for the Braves on Friday.
“Charlie had a big impact on our younger guys,” said Snitker. “They saw firsthand how a true pro operates — always prepared, always making his starts. That kind of example goes a long way.”
With a career record of 147-130 and a 4.07 ERA in nearly 2,200 innings, Morton now joins a growing list of former Braves from the 2021 championship squad — including Orlando Arcia (Rockies), Travis d’Arnaud (Angels), and Jorge Soler — who are returning to face Atlanta in different uniforms.
But for the Braves, it’s all love.
“Charlie’s a great guy,” said third baseman Austin Riley. “I loved playing behind him. He’s seen me at the plate a bunch, and I’ve seen him pitch a lot too. Hopefully, he throws me something I can handle.”
First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m., with the game marking the eighth regular-season contest broadcast live by Gray Media this year.
