Long-Time Braves Pitcher Set To Retire On Sunday

For nearly two decades, Charlie Morton has made a career out of defying expectations. On Sunday, the 41-year-old right-hander will take the mound one last time, capping off a 17-year major league journey that saw him transform from journeyman to October hero to veteran leader for the Atlanta Braves. Morton, who was designated for assignment by the Detroit Tigers after their series against Atlanta, will start Sunday at Truist Park in what promises to be an emotional farewell. The Braves plan to honor him before the game, celebrating both his impact on the field and his steady presence in the clubhouse.

Drafted by Atlanta in 2002 and debuted in the MLB in 2008, Morton’s career truly took off in his mid-30s, when he reinvented himself with a devastating curveball and a knack for thriving in high-pressure moments. He earned the nickname “Uncle Charlie” through his final seasons in Atlanta, showcasing the love the clubhouse had for him. In Atlanta, Morton became more than just a reliable starter. He was a mentor to the Braves’ young rotation, guiding pitchers like Spencer Strider, Max Fried, and Bryce Elder as they established themselves. Even as his velocity dipped, Morton remained effective, posting a sub-4.00 ERA in his 2023 season while continuing to rack up strikeouts with his signature curve.

Beyond the numbers, Morton built a reputation for professionalism and perspective. Teammates often pointed to his calm demeanor as a steadying influence in pressure situations, whether it was a game seven or a late-season push. His ability to balance competitiveness with humility made him one of the most respected players in any clubhouse he entered. Morton’s career numbers tell the story of longevity and resilience: over 2200 innings, more than 2100 strikeouts, two All-Star appearances, and even his fifth place on the hit by pitch leaderboard. All of these stats tell the story of a player who continued to adapt and work to be the best player he could. On Sunday, when he throws his final pitch, Morton will leave the game on his own terms. And he’ll do it in the same uniform he wore when his career began, bringing his story full circle. For Braves fans, it’s the end of an era. For Charlie Morton, it’s the perfect sendoff.