Spurned in attempts to add a starting pitcher in his prime, the Baltimore Orioles opted for the ultimate veteran presence to buff out their rotation.
Charlie Morton, 41, and the Orioles agreed to a one-year, $15 million contract Friday, the club announced, as the two-time World Series champion returns for his 18th major league season.
While Morton won’t automatically slot into his rotation spot, he is ostensibly a replacement for All-Star Corbin Burnes, who signed a $210 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks last month, a salary stratosphere the Orioles weren’t expected to reach.
Instead, for the fourth consecutive year in this window of contention, they’ll spend a similar amount of money on a one-year commitment for a veteran arm. Jordan Lyles (2022) gave way to Kyle Gibson and then Craig Kimbrel in 2024, as the Orioles needed a replacement for injured closer Felix Bautista.
Now, they’ll try to match either the 91 wins they notched with Burnes or the 101 they achieved in 2023. While much of that will have to do with offensive consistency, Burnes’ departure and the midseason or later returns of right-handers Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells from elbow surgery created immediate need.
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Morton, the hero of Game 7 of the 2017 World Series and also a World Series winner with Atlanta in 2021, will try to fill it. He has a lifetime 138-123 record and pitched 165 ⅓ innings for the Braves last year, posting a 4.19 ERA.
The Baltimore Orioles have made a surprising move by signing 41-year-old starting pitcher, John Smith, to a one-year deal. Despite his age, Smith has shown remarkable durability and consistency throughout his career, making him a valuable addition to the Orioles’ rotation.
Smith, a veteran of 17 MLB seasons, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to a young Orioles team that is looking to rebuild and compete in the tough AL East division. His ability to eat innings and mentor younger pitchers will be invaluable to the team’s development.
While some may question the wisdom of signing a pitcher in his 40s, the Orioles are confident in Smith’s ability to continue pitching at a high level. With his track record of success and work ethic, Smith is sure to make a positive impact on the team both on and off the field.
Orioles fans may have their doubts about this signing, but only time will tell if John Smith can defy Father Time and help lead Baltimore back to contention. Stay tuned for more updates on this unexpected acquisition.
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