Tampa Bay Rays: Charlie Morton says he is on final contract

Once Charlie Morton’s contract with the Tampa Bay Rays comes to an end, he is planning on walking away from the game.

The Tampa Bay Rays made a surprising splash in free agency when they signed Charlie Morton to a two year contract, including a vesting option for the 2021 season.  Morton was seemingly expected to return to the Astros, a team that had completely revived his career, especially as he had stated that he was considering retirement after the 2018 campaign.

Those sentiments resurfaced again on Tuesday. Morton again mentioned that he was considering retirement, only this time when his deal with the Rays expires.

A relatively anonymous pitcher before coming to Houston, it was a surprise when he inked a two year deal worth $14 million from the Astros. However, he proved to be well worth the investment, posting a 29-10 record with a 3.36 ERA and a 1.176 WHiP over his 313.2 innings, striking out 364 batters with only 114 walks.

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The Rays are hoping that the success from his time in Houston follows to Tampa Bay. Thus far, he is off to a good start, allowing only two hits in his 3.2 innings with three strikeouts. However, Morton has hit two batters, an ongoing concern for the righty as he has led the league in hit batters in four of the past six seasons.

While the Astros focused on spin rates and found several buy-low candidates, the Rays also have a history of improving their bargain bin finds. While Morton no longer qualifies as such a player, by signing with an organization that has had success in unconventional ways, he should be able to maximize his ability.

Even though Morton is coming off of a career best season, one can understand why he would consider retirement. At 35 years old, he can see the end coming soon. As he also has a young and growing family, it is understandable that he would want to spend as much time with them as possible.

Charlie Morton can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Once his time with the Tampa Bay Rays comes to an end, he is looking at calling it a career.