The Atlanta Braves would appear to have one extension that needs to happen. With Freddie Freeman eligible for free agency this offseason, He is obviously the focus on the fanbase. However, Freeman has said that he does not want to negotiate during the season, which means that there may not be any movement on that front until the offseason.
With that being the case, the Braves have been locking towards locking up other pieces for their 2022 roster. Charlie Morton has become the latest player to sign an extension, inking a one year deal with an option for 2023.
Charlie Morton has signed a one-year, $20 million contract extension with the Atlanta Braves that includes a $20 million club option for 2023.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) September 6, 2021
Atlanta Braves locking in their 2022 roster by keeping Charlie Morton
There were questions as to whether or not Morton would even pitch this year. He had stated that he wanted to be close to his family in Florida, limiting his potential options. Morton wound up signing a one year deal worth $15 million to head to Atlanta, giving the Braves a solid option for the rotation.
Although he had a slow start with the Braves, he has been able to right the ship. Entering Monday, Morton had posted a solid 3.47 ERA and a 1.063 WHiP over his 158 innings, striking out 185 batters with 51 walks. Even though he will turn 38 years old during the offseason, that production would be enough to generate plenty of interest this offseason.
But there is something to be said for comfort. Morton clearly has that in Atlanta, where he is still close to his family and is part of a winning organization. That combination is more than enough for him to forgo free agency to ensure that he remains in the right spot.
This is also an important signing for the Braves. Morton has been able to take the ball every fifth day, eating innings while performing reasonably well. For a team that has had as many injuries to the rotation as the Braves have had this season, the importance of having someone capable of taking the ball every fifth day cannot be discounted.
The Atlanta Braves are keeping Charlie Morton for at least one more year. He is another key piece as they look to lock in their 2022 roster.