Charlie Morton
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2009Mundys110000012.111661624.38
2010Mundys181850850111.2122644160215.16
2011Mundys14141045082.1112512444145.57
2012Mundys1582033069.16131264644.02
2013Mundys00000000.0000000.00
2014Mundys181820780113.198584774124.61
2015Mundys2121201290122.2124634198144.62
2016Mundys00000000.0000000.00
2018Pacemakers2424521260158.21327360151304.14
2019Mudhens2222415100148.01226959151204.20
2019Pacemakers16161165097.1844849122124.44
2020Mudhens343413218100261.01939978317363.41
2021Moose2121103120115.21548125118206.30
2022Moose3232818140214.019312075226375.05
2023Moose3131406190162.116310577152215.82
2024Storm2222301060139.0124706316894.53
2025Storm11000105.01040307.20
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 30 2025Morton's next start has been pushed back from Tuesday to Friday in Atlanta due to low-grade right elbow tendinitis, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Brandon Young will draw a spot start Tuesday against the Rangers in Morton's place. While the Orioles are optimistic that Morton will be ready to go after a few extra days of rest, he will likely need to get through a bullpen session this week before being cleared to start Friday.
Jun 25 2025Morton didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 6-5 extra-inning loss to the Rangers, giving up three runs on four hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran righty held Texas in check for four of his five frames, but he was lucky escape the fourth inning with only three runs on his ledger, as some shaky Baltimore defense kept the snowball rolling after he issued a leadoff walk to Corey Seager. The three strikeouts were Morton's lowest total since a relief appearance May 10, and over six starts since rejoining the rotation, he's gone 4-0 while posting a 2.90 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 37:10 K:BB through 31 innings. He'll look to get back in the win column in his next outing, which lines up to be a rematch with the Rangers next week in Texas.
Jun 19 2025Morton (4-7) allowed one run on six hits and struck out seven without walking a batter over six innings to earn the win Thursday over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton gave up the opening run, a Danny Jansen RBI single in the third inning, but that was it. This was Morton's third quality start in his last five outings since rejoining the rotation May 26 versus the Cardinals. The veteran right-hander has earned all of his wins on the year while allowing just eight runs (seven earned) over 26 innings in that span. His ERA is down to 5.64 with a 1.60 WHIP and 74:32 K:BB through 67 innings over 17 appearances (11 starts) this season. Morton is projected to make his next start at home versus the Rangers.
Jun 13 2025Morton (3-7) earned the win against the Angels on Friday, allowing five hits and one walk while striking out 10 across five scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was fantastic, generating 16 whiffs on 78 pitches for his second 10-strikeout performance of the season. If not for a lengthy rain delay, the veteran likely would have had a shot at his third quality start in four outings since rejoining the rotation May 26. On the year, he owns a 6.05 ERA, 1.66 WHIP and 67:32 K:BB across 61 innings and lines up for a road matchup with the Rays next week.
Jun 7 2025Morton allowed four runs on six hits and four walks while striking out five over 2.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Athletics on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had seemingly turned a corner with two successful starts in a row since returning to the rotation, but he faltered again Saturday. He threw 76 pitches (42 strikes) in this effort, which saw him give up all four runs in the first inning, though the Orioles were able to overcome the early deficit. Morton has generally been better since the start of May after a brief shift to the bullpen, but it continues to be tough to trust the 41-year-old from one outing to the next. He's at a 6.59 ERA, 1.70 WHIP and 57:31 K:BB through 56 innings over 15 appearances (nine starts) this season. Morton's next start is tentatively projected to be at home versus the Angels.
Jun 1 2025Morton (2-7) earned the win Sunday against the White Sox, allowing one unearned run on six hits and a walk over 6.2 innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a dreadful start to the year that resulted in a demotion to the bullpen, Morton's turned in back-to-back wins and quality starts since returning to the Baltimore rotation, and he's allowed three runs (two earned) while striking out 12 over 12.2 innings in that span. The veteran right-hander lowered his ERA to 6.20 with a 1.58 WHIP and 52:27 K:BB across 53.2 innings this season. Morton will look to keep it going in his next outing, currently scheduled for next week on the road against the A's.
May 26 2025Morton (1-7) earned the win Monday against the Cardinals, allowing two runs on four hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Not only did the veteran right-hander secure his first win, but he also collected his first quality start with this vintage 86-pitch performance. The lone blemish on Morton's outing was a 368-foot, two-run homer off the bat of Pedro Pages in the fifth inning. After pitching to a ghastly 9.38 ERA across his first 31.2 frames, Morton has been better of late, firing a 2.35 ERA and 17:4 K:BB over his last 15.1 innings. The 41-year-old receives a soft matchup for his next start, which currently lines up to be at home against the White Sox this weekend.
May 25 2025Morton is scheduled to start Monday's game against the Cardinals at Camden Yards, Jacob Calvin Meyer of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After the Orioles parted ways with Kyle Gibson last Tuesday, Morton had been expected to slot back into the rotation during the team's series versus Boston over the weekend, but rainouts Thursday and Friday resulted in some reshuffling with the pitching schedule. Morton is now set to take the hill Monday on eight days' rest and will be making his seventh start of the season. The veteran right-hander is still holding down a 7.68 ERA and 1.76 WHIP on the season, but he's been much sharper over his three most recent relief appearances. In those outings, Morton struck out 12 batters over 9.2 innings while allowing two earned runs on four hits and two walks.
May 21 2025Morton will start for the Orioles on Friday in Boston, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton pitched well after taking over for an ineffective Kyle Gibson on Saturday versus the Nationals, striking out six over 4.1 innings of one-run ball. He's yielded only two runs with a 12:2 across his last 9.1 relief innings and will now get another shot in the Orioles rotation.
May 7 2025Morton (0-7) took the loss against Minnesota on Wednesday, allowing three runs on four hits and one walk while striking out two batters over four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After being demoted to a bulk-relief and then a bullpen role in late April, Morton was given another chance to start Wednesday since the Twins needed to fill a rotation spot. The veteran righty actually fared slightly better than he had in his previous five starts -- the three runs were the fewest he's given up in a starting appearance so far this season, and he walked just one batter -- but that's not saying much since he lasted only four frames and took his MLB-worst seventh loss. Given Morton's 9.38 ERA through 31.2 innings on the campaign, there's ample reason to believe that Father Time may have finally caught up to the 41-year-old. With starter Zach Eflin (lat) slated to be activated from the injured list this weekend, it's likely that Morton will head back to the bullpen.
Apr 30 2025Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said Wednesday that Morton will work out of the bullpen moving forward, Jacob Calvin Meyer of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In lieu of re-signing Corbin Burnes or bringing aboard another frontline starter via trade or free agency this offseason, the Orioles brought Morton aboard on a one-year, $15 million deal with the hope that he would serve as a stable contributor in the middle of the rotation. That gambit has backfired, as Father Time appears to have finally caught up with Morton in his age-41 season. The Orioles deployed Morton in bulk relief in his last two appearances with the hope that the arrangement would yield better results, but the right-hander gave up four earned runs on six hits and six walks over six innings between those outings and now owns a 9.45 ERA and 2.17 WHIP for the season. Hyde hasn't closed the door on Morton starting again at some point down the road, but the veteran may need to turn in a few quality low-leverage appearances out of the bullpen before the Orioles insert him back into the rotation.
Apr 20 2025Morton (0-5) took the loss Sunday against the Reds, allowing seven runs on seven hits and four walks over 2.1 innings with two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 41-year-old right-hander did not have it again in this 68-pitch outing, getting just seven outs -- his shortest start of the season. Morton has now allowed four or more runs in each of his first five starts. His production has been downright unsightly, as he's posted a 10.89 ERA, 2.23 WHIP and 21:15 K:BB across 20.2 innings. Given how badly Morton has struggled, the Orioles may be contemplating removing him from the rotation. If he makes it, Morton's next start is currently slated to be at Detroit next weekend.
Apr 16 2025Morton (0-4) allowed five runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out two in five innings in a loss to the Guardians on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's struggles continued, as he's now given up four-plus earned runs in six straight starts (dating back to the end of last season) for the first time in his 18-year career. Walks in the third contributed to the Guardians' first run of the game and they poured on three more in the fifth, including a two-run homer from Steven Kwan. Morton will continue to stick in the rotation while the Orioles' top two starters are on the shelf. He lines up to face the Reds in Baltimore on Sunday.
Apr 9 2025Morton (0-3) took the loss Tuesday, giving up four runs on four hits and five walks over five-plus innings as the Orioles fell 4-3 to the Diamondbacks. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 41-year-old righty got only 51 of his 87 pitches into the strike zone as his rough start to the campaign continues. Morton has struck out 17 batters in his first 13.1 innings with Baltimore, but he's also walked eight, leading to an 8.78 ERA and 1.88 WHIP. Given the team's injury issues in the rotation, the O's have little choice but to let Morton try to work through his issues. He lines up to make his next trip to the mound at home early next week against the Guardians.
Apr 3 2025Morton (0-2) took the loss Thursday against the Red Sox, allowing five runs on six hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out ten. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had the strikeout pitch working Thursday, recording double-digit punchouts for the first time since 2023. However, the veteran right-hander fell victim to the home-run ball early, giving up a pair of two-run homers to Alex Bregman and Kristian Campbell in each of the first two innings, respectively. Morton's now given up nine runs through his first two starts (8.1 innings) with Baltimore. He'll look to get in the win column in his next outing, currently scheduled for next week in Arizona.
Mar 28 2025Morton (0-1) gave up four runs on seven hits and one walk over 3.1 innings Friday in a loss to the Blue Jays. He had three strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 41-year-old Morton became the oldest starting pitcher to open a game for the Orioles, but aside from that little bit of history, this was one to forget for Morton. He needed 23 pitches to get through the first inning while allowing two hits in the frame and was at 41 pitches after two innings. He was chased out of the game in the fourth inning after surrendering base hits to the first three batters he faced followed by a bases-loaded walk and a sacrifice fly. Morton departed after 80 pitches, and reliever Albert Suarez allowed two of Morton's inherited runners to score, ultimately saddling him with the loss. Baltimore will look to Morton to eat up innings in 2025, and the right-hander has been durable, averaging 174 innings pitched over the last six full regular seasons. He is tentatively lined up for a home start against Boston next week.
Mar 8 2025Morton threw three scoreless innings against the Rays in Saturday's Grapefruit League game, striking out four batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton struck out the side in the top of the first inning, setting down Josh Lowe, Eloy Jimenez and Curtis Mead in order on 14 pitches. He got through the next two innings on 13 total pitches. Morton's fastball was consistently sitting at 94-95 mph, and the 41-year-old has yet to allow a run through six innings of work this spring. With Grayson Rodriguez (triceps) already ruled out for Opening Day, the Orioles are going to rely on Morton even more out of the gates this season.
Feb 23 2025Morton (illness) is scheduled to start Tuesday's Grapefruit League game against the Tigers, Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 41-year-old missed some workouts at the start of camp due to an illness, but he'll still make his spring debut for the Orioles within the first few games of camp. Morton joined Baltimore on a one-year, $15 million contract in early January and will be a key rotation piece after posting a 4.19 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 167:65 K:BB across 165.1 innings with Atlanta last year.
Feb 20 2025Morton wasn't present for Thursday's full-squad workout due to an illness, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Provided the ailment isn't anything too severe, Morton should resume working out with the Orioles within the next few days. After signing a one-year, $15 million deal with Baltimore over the winter, Morton is expected to open his age-41 season as the Orioles' No. 3 starter behind Grayson Rodriguez and Zach Eflin.
Jan 3 2025The Orioles signed Morton to a one-year, $15 million contract Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton finished the 2024 regular season with an 8-10 record over 30 starts with a 4.19 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 23.8 percent strikeout rate across 165.1 innings. Despite turning 41 last November, Morton has pitched at least 150 innings in four of the last five seasons and will join an Orioles' rotation that lost Corbin Burnes to the Diamondbacks in free agency.
Nov 12 2024Morton plans to continue his baseball career in 2025, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 41-year-old has not yet confirmed it himself, but recent reports had suggested Morton was likely to keep pitching next season rather than retire. Morton's strikeout rate fell to 23.8 percent in 2024, which was the lowest it's been since 2015. He still misses bats at an above-average rate, however, and has made 30-plus starts in each of the last six non-COVID seasons. Morton shouldn't have trouble netting a sizable one-year contract, likely from a contender.
Sep 29 2024Morton (8-10) took the loss Sunday against Kansas City, allowing four runs on five hits and two walks across 4.1 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton took the loss for the third time in his last four starts and surrendered four runs for a second consecutive outing. All four runs against the 40-year-old came via the long ball, with Michael Massey lifting a three-run homer in the first inning before Hunter Renfroe notched a solo shot in the fourth. Morton ends the regular season with a 4.19 ERA and a 167:65 K:BB across 165.1 innings spanning 30 starts.
Sep 28 2024Morton will start for Atlanta in Sunday's series finale against the Royals, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: By having Morton start Sunday, Atlanta has the flexibility to start Chris Sale or Spencer Schwellenbach on Monday against the Mets or Tuesday in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series. Morton came away with the loss in his last start against the Marlins on Sept. 20, during which he gave up four runs on seven hits and four walks while striking out three over six innings. Over his 29 starts this season, Morton has an 8-9 record with a 4.08 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 164:63 K:BB across 161 innings.
Sep 20 2024Morton (8-9) yielded four runs on seven hits and four walks over six innings Friday, striking out three and taking a loss against Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton struggled out of the gate and allowed three runs in the first inning. He kept the Marlins off the board for a few frames before allowing another run in the fifth. He threw 64 of 105 pitches for strikes and forced 12 whiffs, including seven with his curveball. Morton has walked multiple batters in seven straight starts, posting a 44:19 K:BB over 40.1 innings during that span. He now owns a 4.08 ERA with a 164:63 K:BB through 29 starts this season. Morton is projected to make his final start of 2024 in a home matchup against the Mets next week.
Sep 16 2024Morton did not factor into the decision in Sunday's loss to the Dodgers, allowing one run on three hits and two walks while striking out six over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton blanked the Dodgers through four innings and allowed just two baserunners. They eventually got one in the fifth off a Shohei Ohtani double after the Dodgers opened up the frame with a single and a walk. Morton now has consecutive quality starts for the first time since July and has a 2.68 ERA over his last seven starts. He's now down to a 4.01 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 161:59 K:BB in 155 innings and lines up for a favorable start against Miami later in the week.
Sep 9 2024Morton (8-8) took the loss Monday, giving up one run on six hits and two walks over 6.2 innings in a 1-0 loss to the Mets. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton put together one of his better efforts of the season in a losing effort Monday. He pitched into the seventh inning for just the fifth time this season and held the Reds to a single run on an RBI double by Ty France in the third inning. The 40-year-old got lit up for eight runs against the Brewers early in August but has bounced back nicely since then with a 2.88 ERA over his last six starts. 
Sep 4 2024Morton (8-7) earned the win over Colorado on Wednesday, allowing two runs on five hits and three walks while striking out eight batters over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton yielded two hits in a scoreless first inning, then allowed the Rockies to score twice on a walk, a triple and a double in the second. The veteran right-hander pitched much better the rest of the way, surrendering just one hit and two walks while keeping Colorado off the scoreboard across his final three frames. Morton needed 100 pitches to cover five innings and didn't return for the sixth, but he was effective in racking up 13 swinging strikes and eight punchouts. He's allowed three or fewer runs with at least six strikeouts in each of his past five starts but has completed six frames only once during that span.
Aug 29 2024Morton allowed three runs on five hits and four walks while striking out seven over 5.2 innings in a no-decision versus Philadelphia on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton successfully worked around traffic in each of the first five innings, but he got tagged for a three-run home run by Brandon Marsh in the sixth. Morton threw 62 of 105 pitches for strikes, but Atlanta couldn't hold the lead after he exited the game. He's allowed three runs or fewer in six of his eight starts since the All-Star break, though the two exceptions saw him give up seven (five earned) and eight runs in his only two losses in that span. Overall, Morton has a 4.26 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 140:52 K:BB through 137.1 innings across 25 starts this season. The 40-year-old is projected to make his next start at home versus Colorado.
Aug 25 2024Morton did not factor into the decision in Saturday's win over the Nationals, allowing two runs on eight hits and two walks over 5.2 innings while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Both runs charged to Morton on the night came across on a two-run homer from Jose Tena in the second inning. The right-hander would then hurl three consecutive scoreless frames before being relieved by Aaron Bummer with two outs in the sixth. It marked the second straight outing in which Morton has been unable to get through six innings, though he's now given up two or fewer runs in each of his last three starts. He's also recorded six or more strikeouts in four of five starts in August, posting a 30:8 K:BB over that stretch.
Aug 19 2024Morton (7-7) got the win Sunday over the Angels, allowing one run on two hits and two walks while striking out seven over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton retired 12 of the first 13 batters he faced but ran into some trouble in the fifth inning. He found himself in a bases loaded jam with nobody out and was able to escape with just one run allowed. Atlanta's pitching combined for 14 strikeouts with Morton responsible for half of those. He now has 15 strikeouts over his last two starts (11.1 innings) after he had just 15 strikeouts over his previous four starts combined (17.1 innings). The 40-year-old now owns a 4.29 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 127:46 K:BB in 126 innings. He lines up to face the Nationals at home in a start over the weekend.
Aug 14 2024Morton did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's win over the Giants, allowing two runs on six hits and a walk while striking out eight over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Giants scratched across a run against Morton in the second and Tyler Fitzgerald took him yard in the third for the only major damage against him. Morton racked up eight strikeouts, which tied his season-best mark. His final strikeout of the evening, which came against Mike Yastrzemski in the sixth, was the 2,000th strikeout of his career. Morton has been alternating good and bad starts over his last four outings. He's allowed 13 runs, seven homers and struck out just five batters combined over the two bad starts, while allowing two runs and striking out 14 batters combined over his two good starts. It's been a struggle for the 40-year-old to find consistency over a longer stretch this season, and he now owns a 4.40 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 120:44 K:BB in 120.2 innings. He lines up to complete a two-start week against the Angels on Sunday.
Aug 8 2024Morton (6-7) was charged with the loss Thursday versus the Brewers after he surrendered eight runs on nine hits and one walk over 2.2 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Milwaukee's offense erupted for eight long balls in the series finale, and Morton gave up half of those homers. It's the second time in his past three starts the right-hander has allowed at least three home runs and was the fourth time in his past six outings he's served up multiple homers. Morton's ERA ballooned by a half-run to 4.47 following the poor showing, and he also has a 1.31 WHIP and 112:43 K:BB over 114.2 innings this year.
Aug 2 2024Morton (6-6) earned the win against Miami on Thursday, allowing an unearned run on five hits and two walks while striking out six batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was mauled for seven runs (five earned) over 2.2 frames in his previous start, but he bounced back nicely against the lowly Marlins, picking up both a win and a quality start. The only run the veteran right-hander allowed was unearned, though the error that led to the tally was a result of his own errant throw. While Morton's strikeout numbers are down this season, he's been able to hold his own against big-league hitters at age 40, posting respectable 3.94 ERA and 1.25 WHIP over 112 innings.
Jul 27 2024Morton (5-6) took the loss Friday, coughing up seven runs (five earned) on six hits -- including three home runs -- on a walk over 2.2 innings in an 8-4 loss to the Mets. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After holding New York off the board through the first two frames, Morton fell apart in the third and served up a grand slam to J.D. Martinez, a two-run shot to Mark Vientos and a solo blast to Francisco Alvarez before getting the hook. It's the third time in four July starts the veteran right-hander has been taken deep multiple times, a stretch in which he's stumbled to a 5.31 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 16:4 K:BB through 20.1 innings. Morton will try to turn things around in his next trip to the mound, which lines up to come on the road next week in Milwaukee.
Jul 21 2024Morton came away with a no-decision in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Cardinals, allowing one run on six hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The matinee of the twin bill saw a pitchers' duel between two veteran right-handers, as both Morton and Kyle Gibson recorded one-run quality starts in an eventual 3-2 extra-inning win for Atlanta. Morton's quality start was his eighth of the year, but the 40-year-old isn't racking up the Ks like he used to -- he's fanned five batters or less in four of his last five starts, managing a 3.94 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 25:9 K:BB over 29.2 innings during that stretch. He lines up to make his next trip to the mound on the road next week against the Mets.
Jul 11 2024Morton did not factor into the decision in a loss to the Diamondbacks on Wednesday, allowing four runs on five hits over 6.1 innings while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Most of the damage against Morton came in the second and third innings when the veteran surrendered home runs to Eugenio Suarez and Ketel Marte. The right-hander would then cruise through the next three frames before being relieved by Pierce Johnson with one out in the seventh, though a fourth run ended up being charged to Morton's ledger. The 40-year-old has now allowed two home runs in back-to-back starts and has given up at least three runs in four of his last six outings. However, he's also tallied five or more strikeouts in three consecutive starts.
Jul 4 2024Morton (5-5) allowed four runs (three earned) on five hits and two walks while striking out five over 5.1 innings to take the loss versus the Giants on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton continues to alternated between good and bad starts, with this one being not particularly sharp. He threw 54 of 94 pitches for strikes and served up home runs to Heliot Ramos and Matt Chapman in the fourth inning. This was the first time all year Morton has been taken deep multiple times in a start. He's been generally effective with a 3.96 ERA despite a 1.25 WHIP and 92:38 K:BB over 91 innings across 16 starts. The veteran right-hander is projected to make his next start at Arizona.
Jun 28 2024Morton (5-4) earned the win Friday against Pittsburgh, throwing 6.1 scoreless innings with seven strikeouts. He allowed three hits and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 40-year-old looked sharp over a 104-pitch outing, generating 15 whiffs -- including seven on his curveball alone -- to collect seven punchouts. Morton wrapped a successful June, firing a 3.10 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 28:13 K:BB across 29 innings. The Atlanta right-hander is slated to face the Giants at home in his next start.
Jun 22 2024Morton (4-4) allowed five runs on five hits and five walks while striking out four over 5.2 innings to take the loss versus the Yankees on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton matched his season high with the five walks, something he has done three times this year. He's also given up five or more runs in three of his last five outings. The 40-year-old has done a good job of eating innings, but the results have been mediocre -- he's at a 4.20 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 80:35 K:BB over 79.1 innings through 14 starts. Morton is projected to make his next start on the road versus the White Sox in a makeup game for a rainout from April 3.
Jun 15 2024Morton (4-3) earned the win over Tampa Bay on Saturday, allowing one run on three hits and two walks while striking out eight batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had his swing-and-miss stuff working, racking up 22 whiffs among his 105 pitches. The veteran hurler fell behind by a run in the first inning but yielded only two hits while holding the Rays scoreless thereafter. This was a nice bounce-back for Morton after he surrendered five runs (four earned) over five innings against Washington in his previous start. Saturday's victory was his first since May 10, and it was just his second quality start across six outings during that span.
Jun 8 2024Morton (3-3) took the loss Saturday against Washington, allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits over five innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Nationals got to Morton early Saturday, scoring three runs in the first two innings. The 40-year-old Morton has had a tough time with Washington this year, yielding 12 earned runs over 10.2 innings in two starts against the Nats. His ERA now sits at 4.12 on the season with a 1.30 WHIP and 68:28 K:BB across 67.2 innings. Morton will look to get back on track in his next outing, currently scheduled for next week at home versus Tampa Bay.
Jun 2 2024Morton didn't factor into the decision Sunday against Oakland, allowing one hit and five walks with six K's across six scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: During his last start, Morton was hammered for 12 hits and eight runs by the Nationals. He did a complete 180 on Sunday, yielding one hit and delivering his first scoreless start since April 27. However, it wasn't a perfect outing, as Morton tied his season high in walks and hit the strike zone on just 58 of his 97 pitches. Over 62.2 innings, Morton owns a 3.88 ERA with a 65:28 K:BB and he's scheduled for a rematch with the Nationals in Washinton on Saturday.
May 27 2024Morton (3-2) took the loss Monday against Washington, allowing eight runs on 12 hits and two walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 40-year-old Morton allowed a career-high 12 hits in this start as the Nationals laced eight singles, three doubles and one homer. However, he also managed to generate an impressive 18 whiffs en route to his seven punchouts. Overall, the Atlanta veteran owns a 4.29 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 59:23 K:BB in 56.2 innings this season. Morton is currently slated to face Oakland at home in his next start.
May 21 2024Morton allowed two runs (one earned) on four hits and four walks while striking out eight over five innings in a no-decision versus the Cubs on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's last two starts have been against the Cubs, and they've managed to give him some control issues -- he walked seven batters over eight innings in those games. Tuesday's road outing was better than his start last Wednesday in Atlanta, but it still doesn't inspire a ton of confidence. The veteran right-hander is now at a 3.35 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 52:21 K:BB over 51 innings through nine starts this season. Morton's next start is projected to be at home versus the Nationals.
May 15 2024Morton (3-1) took the loss Wednesday versus the Cubs, allowing four runs (three earned) on five hits and three walks while striking out four over three innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton worked a high pitch count, needing 76 pitches (48 strikes) to get through three frames in his shortest outing of the season. He had pitched into the sixth inning in each of his other seven starts. The 40-year-old's poor start caused his ERA to balloon to 3.52 from 3.14, and he's sporting a 1.15 WHIP and 44:17 K:BB over 46 innings. Assuming there's not an injury at play, Morton is tentatively projected for a road rematch with the Cubs in his next start.
May 10 2024Morton (3-0) yielded a run on three hits and a walk over seven frames Friday, striking out seven and earning a win over the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton rolled through six easy innings before Francisco Lindor broke up with the shutout with a solo shot in the seventh. Since allowing 10 total runs in two starts April 8 and 14, Morton has turned in four straight quality starts. During that stretch, his season ERA has dropped from 5.29 to 3.14 through 43 innings. Morton is currently in line for a home matchup against the Cubs next week.
May 3 2024Morton did not factor into the decision Friday against the Dodgers, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton held the vaunted Dodgers lineup in check Friday night, pitching well enough to earn his third straight quality start. Over those three starts, the 40-year-old has thrown 19 innings to the tune of a 1.89 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 15:5 K:BB. Morton is slated to face the Mets on the road in his next start.
Apr 27 2024Morton allowed four hits and one walk while striking out six batters over seven scoreless innings in a no-decision against Cleveland on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton and Cleveland starter Tanner Bibee both hurled seven scoreless frames in the contest, subjecting both pitchers to a no-decision despite their impressive individual efforts. Morton notched his second straight quality start, and he appears to be coming back around after allowing 10 runs over 11.1 frames across a pair of outings April 8 and April 14. The veteran right-hander continues rolling along as an effective rotation piece in his 17th MLB season -- through five starts, he's posting a 3.60 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 28:11 K:BB over 30 innings.
Apr 21 2024Morton (2-0) earned the win Saturday, allowing two runs on four hits and two walks over six innings against the Rangers. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only damage against Morton came in the second inning after the right-hander allowed two singles and a walk in the first three at-bats to open the frame. He would allow two runs in the inning before going on to retire 12 of the next 15 batters he faced in the contest. It marked Morton's first quality start of the season, though he's now allowed at least two runs in three consecutive outings, posting a 16:8 K:BB over that stretch.
Apr 14 2024Morton pitched 5.2 innings, allowing six runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out eight batters in Sunday's 9-7 win over Miami. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton pitched three innings of one-run ball before he surrendered five more runs over the next 2.2 innings. The right-hander has now put together back-to-back disappointing outings, giving up 10 runs on 12 hits and six walks over 11.1 innings. The 40-year-old has pitched exactly 5.2 innings in each of his first three outings in 2024, a mark that he'll look to surpass when he returns to the mound for his next projected start Saturday at home versus the Rangers.
Apr 9 2024Morton (1-0) didn't factor into the decision Monday, allowing four runs on five hits and five walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's walks came back to bite him, with three of his four earned runs scored by players he walked on base. Most of the damage came in the fifth, when Morton opened up the inning by issuing a pair of free passes before Brandon Nimmo launched a three-run home run. Even with Monday's struggles, Morton owns a solid 3.18 ERA across 11.1 innings after blanking the White Sox in his 2024 debut.
Apr 1 2024Morton (1-0) allowed no runs on three hits and two walks over 5.2 innings to pick up the win Monday against the White Sox. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't entirely clean early on for Morton, who loaded the bases in the first on a single, a walk and hit batter and allowed a total of six batters to reach base in the first two-plus innings, but Morton settled down to retire the final 11 batters he faced in cruising to his first win of the season. The 40-year-old veteran continues to excel despite his advanced age. His next opportunity to toe the rubber is tentatively scheduled to take place Sunday in a home matchup against the defending National League champion Diamondbacks.
Mar 17 2024Morton gave up three runs on five hits and a walk over five innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Pirates. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He appears just about ready for the start of the season. Morton did serve up two homers Saturday, a two-run shot by Jack Suwinski in the first inning and a solo shot by Billy McKinney in the third, but they were the first two long balls he's allowed this spring, while Morton's 10:3 K:BB through 7.2 Grapefruit League innings highlights his still-impressive strikeout upside. The 40-year-old delivered a 3.64 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 183:83 K:BB over 30 starts and 163.1 innings for Atlanta in 2023.
Mar 7 2024Morton gave up two hits and two walks over 2.2 scoreless innings during Tuesday's Grapefruit League game against Detroit. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 40-year-old right-hander saw his first game action of the spring, taking the mound to begin the fifth inning, and he looked to be nearly ready for Opening Day. Morton's 1.43 WHIP last season was his highest mark in over a decade, but his 3.64 ERA and 25.6 percent strikeout rate over 163.1 innings indicate he still has plenty left in the tank. He's expected to begin the 2024 campaign as Atlanta's No. 4 starter.
Nov 6 2023Atlanta exercised Morton's $20 million team option for the 2024 season on Monday, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Passan, the organization had some uncertainty at bringing Morton back for his age-40 season at a sizable salary, but the veteran right-hander will ultimately stick around in Atlanta for what could be his final campaign in the big leagues. Though his 11.6 percent walk rate in 2023 represented his worst mark since his rookie campaign, Morton struck out more than a quarter of the batters he faced for the third season in a row and was able to suppress home runs (0.77 HR/9). Even in the twilight of his career, Morton still looks like a strong mid-to-back-end rotation arm, and his fantasy outlook is made more promising by the fact that he'll be back by one of the top offenses in baseball.
Oct 6 2023Morton (finger) threw a bullpen session Friday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's mound session seemingly went smoothly, but he won't be eligible to return until the NLCS after landing on the IL on Sept. 24 with inflammation in his right index finger. Nonetheless, the 39-year-old righty is showing signs of progress and may be able to contribute to Atlanta's postseason run if the team manages to get past Philadelphia.
Sep 24 2023Morton was placed on the 15-day injured list Sunday, retroactive to Sept. 23, with right index finger inflammation. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander suffered the injury during Friday's start against the Nationals and will finish the regular season on the injured list. Morton is now likely to be unavailable through at least the NLDS, as he won't be eligible to be activated until after the roster for that series needs to be set -- though he could be reinstated mid-series if Atlanta places another player on the injured list. Allan Winans was recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett in a corresponding move and will start Game 1 of Sunday's doubleheader in Washington.
Sep 22 2023Morton will undergo an MRI on Saturday after leaving his start Friday at Washington with right index finger discomfort, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton felt something in his right index finger while throwing a curveball in the bottom of the first inning and was replaced by Michael Tonkin before the bottom of the second. X-rays were negative for any fractures, but Morton may be dealing with some sort of ligament or tendon issue -- for now, it's being called a sprain. This injury could mark the end of his regular season if it's at all severe, though he still might be a possibility for the NLDS. His final regular-season start was slated to come in next week's series in Atlanta against the Cubs.
Sep 17 2023Morton (14-12) allowed six runs on six hits and five walks over 4.2 innings Sunday. He struck out five and took a loss against Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton kept the Marlins off the board for two innings before coughing up five runs in the third, including Jazz Chisholm's grand slam. After yielding three runs during a five-start stretch, Morton has been tagged with 10 runs in his last two appearances. His season ERA has climbed to 3.66 with a 182:81 K:BB through 162.1 frames. Morton's next start is lined up to be in Washington.
Sep 11 2023Morton did not factor into the decision Monday, allowing four runs on six hits and four walks over six innings against the Phillies. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The four runs allowed were one more than Morton had allowed in his previous five starts combined. Despite subpar effort, Morton was in line for the win, but the bullpen allowed four runs over the next three innings to allow the Phillies to send the game into extras. The 39-year-old Morton is tied for fifth in the majors in wins with 14 and holds a 3.42 ERA with a 1.40 WHIP and 177 strikeouts over 157.2 innings. His next start is scheduled to take place over the weekend in Miami against the Marlins.
Sep 3 2023Morton (14-11) allowed two runs on six hits and three walks while striking out three over four innings, taking the loss Sunday versus the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton needed 90 pitches (52 strikes) to get through four frames, making Sunday's outing his shortest start since July 25. Prior to this poor start, he'd allowed just one run while striking out 33 over 24 innings across his last four starts combined. The right-hander is now at a 3.32 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 168:72 K:BB through 151.2 innings over 27 starts this season. Morton is projected to make his next start at home versus the Pirates.
Aug 30 2023Morton (14-10) earned the win Tuesday, allowing one run on three hits and two walks over six innings against Colorado. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton turned in another strong outing Tuesday and has now strung together a handful of impressive starts, posting a 0.38 ERA and 33:11 K:BB over his last four appearances (24 innings). He'll look to keep the ball rolling in his next start, which is tentatively lined up to come against the Dodgers this weekend.
Aug 23 2023Morton (13-10) allowed two hits and a walk while striking out 11 over seven shutout innings to earn the win Wednesday over the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has thrown 18 scoreless innings over his last three starts, and he's record double-digit strikeouts in each of his last two outings. Wednesday's effort was his best work this season. He's trimmed his ERA from 3.86 on Aug. 6 to 3.37 now, and he's added a 1.38 WHIP and 157:67 K:BB through 141.2 innings across 25 starts. The 39-year-old right-hander is lined up for a road start in Colorado next week.
Aug 16 2023Morton (12-10) earned the win over the Yankees on Wednesday, allowing four hits and one walk while striking out 10 batters over six scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was very sharp in the start, at one point retiring 10 straight batters and never allowing a runner to reach third base. The veteran racked up 15 swinging strikes and tied a season high with 10 punchouts while recording his second straight scoreless appearance. In his previous start -- a win over the Mets -- Morton walked seven batters, but he was much more in control Wednesday, issuing just one free pass. He's showing that he still has gas in the tank in his age-39 campaign, holding a 3.54 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 146:66 K:BB through 134.2 innings.
Aug 11 2023Morton (11-10) allowed three hits and seven walks over five shutout frames Friday, striking out four and earning a win over the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton threw just 52 of 105 pitches for strikes and struggled with his command all night but still turned in a scoreless outing. He coughed up 16 runs over his previous four starts but dropped his ERA back down to 3.71 after Friday's win. Since the start of July, he's recorded a 3.50 ERA with a 36:26 K:BB through 43.2 innings. Morton's expected to face the Yankees at home next week.
Aug 6 2023Morton (10-10) allowed five runs on four hits and four walks while striking out four over 4.1 innings, taking the loss Sunday versus the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's skid continued, as he's given up 16 runs over 19.2 innings during his four-start losing streak. He's also posted a 17:15 K:BB in that span, though he's had trouble with walks (4.2 BB/9) all season. Overall, the right-hander is at a 3.86 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 132:58 K:BB through 123.2 innings over 22 starts. He's projected for a road start against the Mets his next time out.
Jul 31 2023Morton (10-9) took the loss against the Angels on Monday, allowing three runs on six hits and three walks while striking out eight batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton allowed plenty of traffic on the basepaths, but it was the long ball that did him in -- all three runs against the veteran came on solo home runs. Despite his trouble keeping the ball in the park, Morton was able to turn in a respectable outing, racking up 23 swinging strikes and eight punchouts while picking up his ninth quality start of the campaign. The 39-year-old has lost each of his past three starts, but he's been an asset overall this season, collecting 10 wins while posting a 3.62 ERA, 1.42 WHIP and 128:54 K:BB over 119.1 innings.
Jul 26 2023Morton (10-8) took the loss Tuesday, giving up four runs on six hits and five walks over 3.2 innings as Atlanta fell 7-1 to the Red Sox. He struck out only one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rain delayed the start of the game by over an hour and a half, and Morton was clearly out of sync when he finally got on the mound, tossing only 47 of 80 pitches and issuing a season-high five free passes before getting the hook. The 39-year-old right-hander's 1.42 WHIP on the year is his worst mark since his days with the Pirates over a decade ago, but Morton has been able to maintain a respectable 3.57 ERA thanks to a 47.1 percent GB% and 10.2 percent HR/FB%. He'll try to rebound in his next outing, which is likely to come at home early next week against the Angels.
Jul 20 2023Morton (10-7) took the loss against Arizona on Wednesday, allowing four runs on six hits and three walks while striking out four batters over 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had notched a victory in each of his previous five appearances coming into Wednesday, but that streak came to an end again Arizona. The veteran hurler surrendered his most runs since the Mets tagged him for four nearly six weeks ago, though he did manage to keep the ball in the park for the fourth time in his past five outings. Morton's season 1.37 WHIP is in line to be his worst over a full season since 2015, but he's still managed to put together a strong campaign with a 3.36 ERA and 119:46 K:BB over 109.2 frames through 19 starts.
Jul 14 2023Morton (10-6) allowed three hits and a walk over seven scoreless innings Friday, striking out four and earning a win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton cruised through Friday's outing, scattering three singles and a walk over his shutout performance. He's given up one earned run or fewer in four of his last six outings, posting a terrific 1.77 ERA during that span. After going a month between wins, the veteran righty has been victorious in five consecutive starts. Morton will carry a 3.20 ERA into his next outing, which is currently scheduled to be at home against Arizona next week.
Jul 8 2023Morton (9-6) earned the win Friday, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over 6.1 innings against the Rays. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton notched his seventh quality start and earned his ninth win Friday. Since allowing six runs to the Dodgers on May 22, the veteran right-hander has been solid, posting a 3.22 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 11.5 K/9 over his past eight appearances (44.1 innings). If Morton can stay healthy in the second half of the season, he'll have a chance to approach his career-high marks (16 wins, 3.05 ERA, 240 strikeouts and 194.2 innings) from his stellar 2019 campaign with Tampa Bay.
Jul 2 2023Morton (8-6) picked up the win in Saturday's 7-0 shutout of the Marlins, allowing four hits and a walk over 5.2 scoreless innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Atlanta's offense once again ambushed the opposition, scoring six runs in the first inning, and Morton cruised from there. The veteran righty has won three straight starts despite some inefficiency on his part, as he's completed six innings just once in his last eight outings, posting a 4.36 ERA, 1.52 WHIP and 56:22 K:BB through 43.1 innings over that stretch. He'll take the mound one more time before the All-Star break for what's likely to be a road start next weekend in Tampa Bay.
Jun 25 2023Morton (7-6) earned the win Sunday over the Reds, allowing three runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out seven in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton wasn't at his best Sunday, but it was enough to get the job done. He's completed at least five innings in six of his last seven starts, but he's gotten through six frames just once in that span. The 39-year-old is at a 3.81 ERA, 1.48 WHIP and 100:39 K:BB through 85 innings across 15 starts this season. His 4.1 BB/9 is his highest since 2016, but he's managed to put up steady numbers anyway. Morton is lined up to make his next start at home versus the Marlins.
Jun 18 2023Morton (6-6) earned the win Sunday, allowing five runs (three earned) on five hits and three walks over five innings against Colorado. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton got off to a shaky start, allowing five runs in the first two innings. However, he'd hold the Rockies at bay from there as Atlanta eventually rallied to win 14-6. The 39-year-old Morton has logged eight or more strikeouts in five of his last seven starts. He now sports a 3.71 ERA with a 1.45 WHIP and 93:36 K:BB through 14 starts (80 innings) this season. He's slated for a road matchup with the Reds in his next outing.
Jun 12 2023Morton allowed four hits and three walks over 5.2 shutout innings in Monday's loss to Detroit. He struck out eight and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was in line for his sixth win of the year before Detroit's late comeback win. Between Monday's appearance and his last scoreless outing May 15, the veteran righty had allowed 15 runs in four starts. He pushed his ERA back down to 3.60 to go with an 85:33 KBB through 75 frames. Morton is projected to face the Rockies at home this weekend.
Jun 8 2023Morton allowed four runs on four hits and four walks while striking out five batters over 4.2 innings in a no-decision against the Mets on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had trouble getting the ball over the plate in the outing, throwing only 58 of 107 pitches for a strike and tying a season high with four walks. The veteran hurler also served up two home runs, including a fifth-inning two-run shot to Tommy Pham that resulted in his removal from the game. This was the first time this season Morton has failed to complete five frames, and it was also his first no-decision through 12 starts. The right-hander is still hanging on to a respectable 3.89 ERA, but his 1.46 WHIP and 9.1 percent walk rate are less promising indicators of how he has pitched this season.
Jun 2 2023Morton (5-6) allowed three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out nine over seven innings to take the loss Friday versus Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton pitched fairly well, but three of the six hits he allowed were doubles, two of which accounted for all of Arizona's run production. This was Morton's third straight loss, though he's now limited opponents to three runs or less in nine of his 11 starts. The 39-year-old is at a 3.62 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 72:26 K:BB through 64.2 innings on the season. Morton will look to break his skid in a home start versus the Mets next week.
May 28 2023Morton (5-5) took the loss Saturday as Atlanta fell 2-1 to the Phillies, allowing two runs on seven hits and four walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander generated 22 swinging strikes over 95 pitches, but it wasn't quite good enough as he lost a pitchers' duel with Zack Wheeler. Morton has worked past the sixth inning only twice in 10 starts this season and has issued multiple walks in all but one start as the 39-year-old begins to show his age, but he still sports a 3.59 ERA, 1.47 WHIP and 63:24 K:BB through 57.2 frames. He'll look to get back in the win column in his next outing, which could come next weekend in Arizona.
May 22 2023Morton (5-4) allowed six runs on seven hits and two walks over five innings Monday, striking out five and taking a loss against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton allowed multiple home runs for the first time this season, with most of the damage coming on Freddie Freeman's three-run blast in the fifth inning. Morton coughed up a season-high six runs and saw his ERA climb to 3.61 through 52.1 frames. However, he's allowed two or fewer runs in four of his last six starts. Morton is lined up to face the Phillies at home this weekend.
May 19 2023Morton will get extra rest and make his next start Monday against the Dodgers, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had been lined up to work Saturday's game against the Mariners, but that is now listed as a TBA spot for Atlanta. The veteran right-hander racked up a season-high 10 strikeouts across 6.2 scoreless frames in his last turn this past Monday versus the Rangers and boasts a 2.85 ERA with 49 strikeouts through 47.1 total innings (eight starts) this year.
May 15 2023Morton (5-3) earned the win over Texas on Monday, tossing 6.2 scoreless frames during which he allowed seven hits and one walk while striking out 10 batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was fantastic Monday, racking up 23 swinging strikes en route to a season-high 10 punchouts. The veteran surrendered seven hits, but all were singles, and he allowed multiple baserunners in just two frames. Morton hasn't lost a step in his age-39 season, posting a 2.85 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 49:18 K:BB over 47.2 innings while collecting five wins. In his 16 big-league campaigns, he's never finished with an ERA below 3.00.
May 10 2023Morton (4-3) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings in a 9-3 victory over the Red Sox. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander racked up 33 called or swinging strikes among his 100 pitches as he delivered his fourth quality start in his last five outings. Morton has alternated wins and losses to begin the season and has issued multiple walks in all seven of his starts, but the 39-year-old has remained reliable with a 3.32 ERA and 39:17 K:BB through 40.2 innings. He'll look for his first win streak of the year in his next trip to the mound, which is likely to come on the road early next week against the Rangers.
May 2 2023Morton (3-3) was tagged with the loss in the second game of a doubleheader against the Mets on Monday, allowing four runs on six hits and three walks while striking out six batters over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton gave up a run in each of the second and fifth innings but looked to be in good shape when Atlanta scored three runs in the top of the sixth to take a 3-2 lead. However, the veteran hurler walked two straight batters with one out in the bottom of the frame, and both came around to score after he was pulled from the contest. Morton came into Monday on a roll with three straight quality starts, but his inability to get through the sixth against New York brought that streak to an end. While he's posted a decent 3.38 ERA on the campaign and has struck out 32 batters over 34.2 frames, Morton's 15 walks are a concern.
Apr 3 2023Morton (1-0) gave up three runs on nine hits and two walks while striking out one in 5.1 innings Monday against St. Louis. He picked up the win. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was a pretty ugly stat line for Morton's first start of the season, but he still outclassed Jake Woodford on the opposite side and rode his run support to the win. Morton got six whiffs on 41 swings across his 81 total pitches, and while the Cardinals have a stout offense, it's still pretty concerning that the strikeout wasn't a viable weapon. He lines up for a home start Saturday against the Padres.
Mar 17 2023Morton gave up four runs on three hits and a walk over 4.1 innings while striking out seven during Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A three-run homer by Manuel Margot in the first inning marred his line in the box score, but Morton still looked pretty dominant as he fired 46 of 70 pitches for strikes before exiting. The veteran right-hander has a 12:4 K:BB through 9.2 innings this spring and seems just about ready for Opening Day, as he looks to top 200 strikeouts for the fifth straight full season.
Mar 6 2023Morton gave up one run on one hit over 2.2 innings while striking out two in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Oswaldo Cabrera tagged him for a solo shot in the first inning, but otherwise Morton looked sharp in his first game action of the spring. The veteran right-hander struggled early last season and had an ERA above 5.00 as late as June 17, but from that point on he looked more like his old self and posted a 3.87 ERA and 11.2 K/9 over his final 18 starts. Morton is 39 years old and the end could be nigh on his big-league career, but Atlanta is counting on him to provide at least one more year as a solid mid-rotation option.
Oct 15 2022Morton exited Saturday's NLDS Game 4 against the Phillies after a comebacker off the bat of Alec Bohm hit his elbow, Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philadelphia reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was also struck by a comebacker during last postseason, fracturing his right fibula in Game 1 of last year's World Series. This injury doesn't appear to be as serious, but he didn't look good when warming up for the third inning and was removed from the game. It's possible he should have been removed even earlier, as he gave up a three-run home run to Brandon Marsh later in the second inning, three batters after suffering the injury. Whether or not he'll have the chance to pitch in the NLCS should Atlanta advance is not yet clear.
Oct 14 2022Morton will draw the start in Saturday's Game 4 matchup in the NLDS with the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton will have his next expected start pushed back a day after Spencer Strider was confirmed as Friday's Game 3 starter. The 38-year-old has yet to pitch in the postseason after having posted a 6.23 ERA in his final five outings of the regular season. Morton will look to produce a better performance in Saturday's contest, which could be an elimination game for Atlanta.
Oct 2 2022Morton didn't factor into the decision during Sunday's 5-3 victory over the Mets, allowing three runs on nine hits and one walk with five strikeouts in 4.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton fell behind early, surrendering multiple baserunners in each of the first three innings with the runs coming across in the second and third, but Atlanta quickly retook the lead and Morton would've earned the win had he recorded two more outs. The 38-year-old scuffled over the last month-plus with a 5.40 ERA in 31.2 innings across six starts, though he compiled a 3-2 record over the stretch. Morton concludes the 2022 regular season with a 4.34 ERA and 1.23 WHIP with 205 strikeouts in 172 innings across 31 starts -- his worst numbers for a full season since 2015.
Sep 30 2022Morton agreed with Atlanta on a one-year, $20 million contract for the 2023 season that includes a $20 million club option for 2024. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton, who turns 39 in November, has a 4.29 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 200 strikeouts (ninth most in the majors) in 167.2 innings this season. The club option does not include a buyout.
Sep 25 2022Morton allowed six runs on six hits and three walks over 4.2 innings against the Phillies on Sunday. He struck out four and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Atlanta ended up winning in extras Sunday, preventing Morton from falling to 9-7 after the rough outing. He coughed up three runs in the first inning and was taken deep twice by Kyle Schwarber. Morton has yielded at least four runs in four of his last six outings, raising his season ERA to 4.29 through 167.2 innings. He's expected to make his final start of the regular season next week at home against the Mets.
Sep 20 2022Morton (9-6) got the win after he pitched 5.1 innings, surrendering one run on three hits and three walks while striking out nine Tuesday versus the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton returned to form Tuesday, pitching into the sixth inning while striking out at least nine batters for the first time in five starts. The only blemish on his line came in the top of the sixth inning when a run came around to score after he had exited the contest. Morton has had an up-and-down September so far, producing a 3.97 ERA and 1.15 WHIP with 28 strikeouts over 22.2 innings in four starts. The right-hander tentatively lines up to pitch again Sunday on the road versus the Phillies.
Sep 14 2022Morton (8-6) got the loss after he pitched 5.1 innings, surrendering four runs on four hits and two walks while striking out seven batters against the Giants on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton didn't have his best stuff again Wednesday, giving up four runs for the second straight outing and third time in his last four starts. After a hot stretch from June 17 to July 8, he's been inconsistent, allowing four or more runs in six out of 11 outings. Morton now owns a 4.17 ERA and 1.19 WHIP with 187 strikeouts over 157.2 innings in 28 starts this season.
Sep 9 2022Morton (8-5) earned the win during Friday's 6-4 victory over Seattle, allowing four runs on six hits and two walks with five strikeouts in 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Both offenses went back and forth as Atlanta eventually prevailed with four runs in the fourth through sixth innings to give Morton his third straight winning decision. Carlos Santana was responsible for the bulk of the damage against the 38-year-old with a pair of long balls and all four runs on Morton's ledger were the result of three home runs. During the three-decision win streak, he's permitted 11 runs across 29.2 innings while recording 39 strikeouts. Morton is scheduled to take the mound again midweek in San Francisco.
Sep 3 2022Morton (7-5) picked up the win in Friday's 8-1 victory over the Marlins, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran righty served up a solo shot to Jerar Encarnacion to lead off the third inning, but otherwise Morton was dominant and fell short of his 10th quality start of the year only after walking a batter with two outs in the sixth and getting the hook. In six outings since the beginning of August, Morton sports a 3.00 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 49:10 K:BB through 36 innings.
Aug 27 2022Morton didn't factor into the decision during Saturday's 6-5 loss to St. Louis, allowing four runs on five hits and three walks with four strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton posted three scoreless frames before surrendering two-run home runs in both the fourth and fifth innings. Despite permitting four runs, the 38-year-old was still in line for the win until Kenley Jansen suffered the loss and blown save in the ninth inning. Morton tossed 61 of 93 pitches for strikes with only six whiffs, which led to his lowest strikeout total since May 25. He carries a 4.10 ERA and 1.19 WHIP into his next start, slated to come next weekend against Miami.
Aug 21 2022Morton allowed two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings against Houston on Sunday. He struck out 11 batters and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was locked into a duel with Jose Urquidy and Atlanta wasn't able to put together enough offense in the loss. The only damage against the veteran righty was Yordan Alvarez's two-run single in the third frame. Morton has racked up 118 strikeouts through 86 innings since the start of June, good for an impressive 12.3 K/9. On the year, he's sporting a 164:47 K:BB with a 3.99 ERA. Morton is lined up to start in St. Louis next weekend.
Aug 17 2022Morton (6-5) picked up the win Tuesday, scattering three hits and a walk over 6.2 scoreless innings in a 5-0 victory over the Mets. He tied his season high with 12 strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: New York didn't even get a runner into scoring position until the seventh inning as Morton was firmly in control all night, collecting his eighth quality start of the season and his first win in over a month. The veteran righty generated 19 swinging strikes among his 97 pitches, and since the All-Star break, he's alternated scoreless outings with shakier ones. The inconsistency has resulted in a 2.67 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 39:8 K:BB through 30.1 innings over those five starts.
Aug 9 2022Morton did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing five runs on six hits and one walk over six innings against the Red Sox. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was a victim of the long ball Tuesday, surrendering just six hits over six innings. Three of those were home runs which accounted for four of his five runs allowed. The veteran righty otherwise looked good, as he walked just one batter and struck out seven while generating 12 whiffs. He carries a 4.26 ERA and 1.21 WHIP into his next scheduled start against the Mets next week
Aug 4 2022Morton didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 3-1 loss to the Phillies, allowing three hits and a walk over 6.2 scoreless innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander was in vintage form, generating 18 swinging strikes among his 101 pitches and exiting the game with Atlanta holding a 1-0 lead. Unfortunately, Morton was denied his sixth win of the year when Collin McHugh imploded in the eighth inning. Morton has delivered six quality starts in his last nine outings, posting a masterful 2.40 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 68:17 K:BB through 56.1 innings over that stretch.
Jul 27 2022Morton (5-5) allowed five runs (four earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out five across five innings to take the loss Wednesday against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton held the Phillies scoreless through four innings but had his start spoiled in his final frame when he allowed five of the first seven batters he faced to reach base. After maintaining a 1.60 ERA and 0.77 WHIP across a five-start stretch from mid-June to early July, Morton has allowed nine earned runs across his last 16 innings -- spanning three outings. Morton owns a 4.34 ERA and 126:42 K:BB in 110 frames for the season.
Jul 23 2022Morton didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 8-1 win over the Angels, allowing two hits and three walks over six scoreless innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander was locked in a pitchers' duel with Shohei Ohtani through six innings, as neither hurler gave up a run. Morton then exited having tossed 105 pitches (65 strikes), and Atlanta promptly got to a fading Ohtani in the bottom of the seventh. Morton has delivered three quality starts in four trips to the mound in July, posting a 2.52 ERRA, 0.92 WHIP and 30:10 K:BB through 25 innings on the month as he continues to turn things around following a shaky beginning to the campaign.
Jul 14 2022Morton (5-4) took the loss Wednesday as Atlanta was downed 7-3 by the Mets, coughing up five runs on six hits -- including three home runs -- and three walks over five-plus innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The strikeouts salvaged some fantasy value for the veteran righty, but Morton wasn't really fooling anyone. He managed only nine swinging strikes among his 107 pitches, serving up multiple homers for the third time in his last seven starts while issuing at least three free passes for the third time in his last four. Despite those recent stumbles, Morton's loss was the first on his ledger since May 3, and he'll carry a 4.45 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 114:37 K:BB through 99 innings into his next outing.
Jul 9 2022Morton (5-3) picked up the win Friday, giving up two runs on four hits and three walks over seven inning in a 12-2 rout of the Nationals. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Aside from a two-run blast by Juan Soto in the third inning, Morton was firmly in control, firing 69 of 105 pitches for strikes before exiting. The win was his first in over a month but the veteran right-hander has been pitching like an ace again recently, reeling off four quality starts in his last five trips to the mound and missing the fifth by only one out. Over that stretch, Morton has a 1.60 ERA, 0.77 WHIP and 42:8 K:BB through 33.2 innings.
Jul 3 2022Morton gave up a hit and a walk with no earned runs over seven innings in a 4-3 loss to the Reds on Sunday. Morton struck out 10 and did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was on the top of his game Sunday, and his seven innings of shutout ball mark the best start of his season. He retired the first 12 batters of the game and struck out the side in the third. Morton leaned effectively on his curveball to garner swings and misses on pitches out of the zone. The 38-year-old veteran had a weak start to the season, posting a 7.00 ERA in April, but his statistics appear to be normalizing closer towards his career averages. The veteran has a career 4.03 ERA in 1705.0 innings pitched. Look for Morton to start on Friday against the Nationals.
Jun 28 2022Morton didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 5-3 win over the Phillies, allowing two runs on seven hits and four walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander ran up his pitch count by tying his season high in free passes and fell one out short of his third straight quality start, exiting after 102 pitches (61 strikes) with Atlanta ahead 3-2. Morton was denied his fifth win of the year when Dylan Lee stumbled in the seventh, however. Morton wraps up a June resurgence that has seen him post a 3.52 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 45:8 K:BB through 30.2 innings over his last five starts.
Jun 22 2022Morton took a no-decision against San Francisco on Wednesday, pitching seven innings and allowing two runs on three hits and no walks while striking out 11 batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton gave up a solo homer in each of the first and fourth innings, but he gave up only one additional hit and otherwise kept the Giants off the scoreboard. The veteran hurler racked up 14 swinging strikes and 11 punchouts but had to settle for a no-decision with opposing starter Carlos Rodon also posting an impressive outing. Morton has really picked things up in the strikeout category of late, fanning 40 batters over his past 25 frames after registering a modest 8.4 K/9 across his first 10 starts of the campaign.
Jun 17 2022Morton allowed three hits over seven scoreless frames in Friday's loss to the Cubs. He struck out nine and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton coughed up just three singles but he also hit two batters. Still, he cruised through seven innings and was left with a no-decision as Atlanta was handed a 1-0 loss. He's registered a 29:4 K:BB over his last three starts, giving him a 75:26 mark on the year. Morton's ERA still sits at a disappointing 5.08 through 13 starts. He's expected to start at home against the Giants next week.
Jun 11 2022Morton allowed four runs on five hits and a walk with 12 strikeouts in six innings, taking a no-decision versus the Pirates on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton left the game with Atlanta trailing, but a seventh-inning rally got him off the hook. He gave up solo home runs to Bryan Reynolds and Daniel Vogelbach in the first inning and a pair of RBI doubles in the fifth to Reynolds and Ke'Bryan Hayes. While Morton has allowed four runs in each of his last four starts, this was the first time in nearly a month he's completed six innings. He has a 5.67 ERA, 1.48 WHIP and 66:26 K:BB in 60.1 innings overall across 12 starts. He's projected for a road start against the Cubs next week.
Jun 5 2022Morton (4-3) allowed four runs on six hits and three walks with eight strikeouts in five innings, earning the win over the Rockies on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had the most trouble with Brendan Rodgers, who had a two-run double and a run in the first inning and a solo home run in the fifth. This was Morton's third straight start with four runs allowed, and he hasn't gone past five innings in any of those games. For the season, the veteran right-hander owns a 5.63 ERA, 1.53 WHIP and 54:25 K:BB in 54.1 innings across 11 starts. He's projected for an easier matchup at home versus the Pirates next weekend.
May 31 2022Morton allowed four runs on four hits and two walks with five strikeouts in five innings in a no-decision versus Arizona on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton lasted long enough to qualify for the win, but Atlanta's bullpen couldn't maintain the lead. Christian Walker took him deep for a two-run home run in the first inning, and Arizona was able to scrape together two more runs that were charged to the starter in the sixth. Morton has only completed six innings once this season, posting a lackluster 5.47 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 46:22 K:BB across 49.1 innings in 10 starts this year. He's projected to make his next start in Colorado this weekend, which is an unfavorable matchup.
May 25 2022Morton pitched 4.1 innings, giving up four runs on nine hits, a walk and hit-by-pitch while striking out four in Wednesday's win over the Phillies. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had a lot of trouble keeping the Phillies off the basepaths, allowing 11 batters to reach base while only registering 13 outs. He gave up a solo home run to Odubel Herrera in the second inning, another run in the fourth frame and surrendered two more in the following inning while only forcing one out. Morton came into Wednesday having only allowed four total runs over 16.1 frames in his prior three starts, watching his ERA jump from 4.95 to 5.28 following the difficult outing. The 38-year-old will look to get back on the right track when he toes the rubber next, tentatively lining up to take on the Diamondbacks on Monday.
May 21 2022Morton (3-3) picked up the win Friday, giving up three runs on seven hits and a walk over 5.1 innings in a 5-3 victory over the Marlins. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander started strong but faded late and fell two outs short of his second straight quality start, exiting after 87 pitches (61 strikes). Morton appears to have turned a corner after a rough April, and over his last three outings he sports a 2.20 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 19:5 K:BB through 16.1 innings.
May 14 2022Morton didn't factor into the decision Saturday against San Diego despite allowing just one run on two hits and a walk while striking out nine batters in six frames. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had a disappointing start to the season, carrying a 5.65 ERA through his first six outings while failing to strike out more than five batters in a single start. He looked much more like himself Saturday and is now riding a streak of two straight strong performances, as he allowed just two hits in five scoreless innings in his previous start. The veteran righty will look to make it three good starts in a row next week in Miami.
May 8 2022Morton (2-3) allowed two hits and three walks while striking out five in five scoreless innings to earn the win over the Brewers on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had struggled mightily over his last four starts, posting a 7.85 ERA and 2.07 WHIP in 18.1 innings. However, he bounced back with a strong outing against a Brewers offense that had scored at least six runs in six of the last eight games. The righty threw just 55 of his 92 pitches for strikes and was pulled after just five innings, but it was encouraging to see him generate some production following a slow start to the season. Morton tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Padres next Sunday.
May 3 2022Morton (1-3) took the loss in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Mets, coughing up five runs (four earned) on six hits and three walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander has yet to complete six innings in any of his starts this season and has walked at least three batters in four straight, as Morton continues to struggle. He'll carry a 6.85 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and shaky 18:14 K:BB through 23.2 innings into his next outing.
Apr 20 2022Morton (1-2) was charged with the loss Wednesday against the Dodgers after allowing four runs on six hits with four strikeouts and three walks over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander surrendered a two-run homer to Freddie Freeman during the opening frame, and he then gave up single tallies in the fifth and sixth innings. It's the second straight loss for Morton after picking up the victory Opening Day, and he'll attempt to get back in the win column next week versus the Cubs.
Apr 14 2022Morton (1-1) took the loss against San Diego on Thursday, hurling five innings during which he surrendered five runs on nine hits and three walks while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Padres got to Morton early in the contest, tallying three runs in the first inning and two more in the second. The right-hander settled down from there and didn't allow any additional runs during his time on the mound, but the damage was too much for Atlanta to overcome. Morton was sharp in picking up a win in his first start of the campaign, so there's little reason to read too much into this poor outing. He'll look to get back on track next week in a tough road matchup against the Dodgers.
Apr 9 2022Morton (1-0) picked up the win in Friday's 7-6 victory over the Reds, allowing two runs on two hits and a walk over 5.1 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Atlanta bullpen made things interesting late but never relinquished the lead, ensuring Morton would get the win in his first appearance since his World Series heroics on a broken leg. The veteran right-hander threw 51 of 78 pitches for strikes, and he should get a little more stretched out in his next outing, which tentatively lines up as a road start Thursday against the Padres.
Apr 2 2022Morton will pitch in a minor-league game on the back fields rather than starting Saturday's Grapefruit League matchup against the Yankees, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was scheduled to make his final Grapefruit League start Saturday, but he'll pitch in a different setting due to the threat of inclement weather. Saturday's throwing session should serve as the final tune-up before Morton starts Atlanta's second game of the regular season against Cincinnati on April 8.
Mar 31 2022Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said Wednesday that Morton will start the team's second game of the season April 8 against the Reds, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's availability for the start of the season initially appeared iffy after he suffered a fractured fibula in the World Series, but he made a speedier recovery than anticipated and reported to spring training at close to 100 percent. He proved his health in his Grapefruit League debut last weekend against the Rays, striking out five over 4.2 scoreless frames. According to O'Brien, Morton is scheduled to make another spring start Saturday against the Yankees in what will be his final tune-up outing prior to Opening Day.
Mar 17 2022Morton (leg) threw about 40 pitches over three innings in a simulated game Wednesday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander faced Atlanta regulars like Ozzie Albies, Matt Olson and Austin Riley and showed no limitations. "That was really good for his psyche and everything else," manager Brian Snitker said afterward. "I thought the ball was coming out really well. He continues to amaze me." Morton appears to be on track for a spot in the Opening Day rotation, a remarkable recovery after he fractured his right leg during Game 1 of the World Series less than five months ago.
Mar 13 2022Morton (lower leg) threw a 20-pitch bullpen session Sunday, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Toscano adds that Morton has already faced hitters a few times this spring, suggesting that he's more or less made a full recovery from the surgery he required in late October to address a fractured right tibia. Morton's departure in Game 1 of the World Series didn't stop Atlanta from claiming its first crown since 1995, but the team would ideally have the 38-year-old ready to go for the start of its title defense. Manager Brian Snitker suggested that Atlanta will have a better sense of whether Morton is on track for Opening Day over the next couple of weeks of workouts, but all signs point to the right-hander being part of the season-opening rotation, per Mark Bowman of MLB.com.
Feb 21 2022Morton (lower leg) said Feb. 12 that he's "mostly caught up" with where he would normally be at in spring training if the MLB lockout wasn't in place, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he acknowledged he wouldn't know exactly where he's at from a conditioning standpoint until the team formally begins spring workouts, Morton at least looks on track for the start of the season after fracturing his right fibula during Game 1 of the World Series against Houston this past October. Atlanta was able to cruise to its first title since 1995 in spite of Morton's absence, but the 38-year-old was unquestionably the team's most dependable starter from about mid-May onward last season. He wrapped up the 2021 regular season with a 3.34 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 20.9 K-BB% across 33 starts.
Nov 22 2021Morton (lower leg) said Thursday that he's no longer donning a cast on his surgically repaired right fibula and is now sporting a walking boot, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton, who underwent surgery Oct. 28 after breaking his leg in Game 1 of Atlanta's World Series matchup with Houston, said that he'll be limited to non-weight-bearing exercises for the next four weeks before doctors determine the next step in his rehab program. At this stage, Morton still appears on track to be ready to go for the start of the 2022 season, though he may face some restrictions early on during spring training. The 38-year-old was rewarded with a one-year, $20 million extension in September after he submitted a 3.34, 1.04 WHIP and 216:58 K:BB across 185.2 innings over his 33 regular-season starts.
Oct 29 2021Morton underwent successful surgery Thursday to repair his fractured right fibula and is expected to be ready for the start of spring training in February, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton suffered the injury during his start in Game 1 of the World Series when he was struck by a comebacker, and it's not a surprise he needed to go under the knife to address the issue. The veteran right-hander will turn 38 years old in November and had an impressive 2021 campaign in which he had a 3.34 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 216:58 K:BB over 185.2 innings.
Oct 26 2021Morton underwent X-rays after leaving Game 1 of the World Series against the Astros on Tuesday and was diagnosed with a fractured right fibula. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was hit by a comebacker during the second inning and initially remained in the contest, but he exited after 2.1 scoreless frames due to the pain. The 37-year-old will obviously be sidelined for the remainder of the World Series but is expected to be ready for spring training in 2022.
Oct 24 2021Morton will start Game 1 of the World Series against the Astros on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton lined up to start Game 7 of the NLCS versus the Dodgers on Sunday if necessary, but Atlanta took care of business in Game 6, allowing him to open the World Series on the mound. The veteran right-hander has a 3.77 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 19:8 K:BB across three starts (14.1 innings) this postseason.
Oct 12 2021Morton pitched 3.1 innings and didn't factor in the decision during the Game 4 victory over the Brewers in the NLDS on Tuesday. He gave up two runs on four hits with five strikeouts and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was never likely to pitch deep in Tuesday's contest while on short rest, and he was pulled during the fourth inning after giving up on run on two hits and a walk. Jesse Chavez then entered in relief and allowed another of Morton's baserunners to score. Max Fried figures to start Game 1 of the NLCS on Saturday, while Ian Anderson and Morton (on regular rest) will be in the mix to pitch Sunday in Game 2.
Oct 8 2021Morton (0-1) allowed two runs on three hits and a walk while striking out nine in six innings to take the loss against the Brewers in Game 1 of the NLDS on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was incredibly sharp in Friday's outing and held the Brewers scoreless across the first six frames. However, he hit Avisail Garcia with a pitch to begin the bottom of the seventh before giving up a home run to Rowdy Tellez. Although the right-hander was charged with an unlucky loss in Friday's pitching duel, he's a strong candidate to appear later in the series if needed.
Sep 28 2021Morton (14-6) allowed three hits and two walks while striking out 10 across seven shutout innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton dominated the Phillies, generating 16 swinging strikes to record his second double-digit strikeout effort of the season. He has been the model of consistency since the All-Star break, as he's worked at least six innings in 11 of his 14 outings and surrendered three or fewer earned runs in all but one of those appearances. The 37-year-old has had an impressive 2021 campaign, maintaining a 3.39 ERA with a 213:58 K:BB across 183 innings.
Sep 23 2021Morton allowed three runs on five hits and two walks over six innings Thursday against Arizona. He also had eight strikeouts but did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 37-year-old limited the Diamondbacks to a single run through six innings but finally ran into trouble in the seventh, allowing consecutive base hits to open the frame before reliever Jacob Webb served up a three-run homer to Carson Kelly. Still, the end result was Morton's fourth quality start in his last five outings, and his best strikeout total in four September appearances. Morton, who is 13-6 with a 3.53 ERA and 203 strikeouts in 176 innings this season, is slated to face Philadelphia at home next Wednesday.
Sep 18 2021Morton (13-6) took the loss in Saturday's 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Giants, allowing two runs on four hits and three walks with three strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton pitched well Saturday but was stuck with the loss as Atlanta failed to score on the night. Despite the quality outing, Morton didn't have his usual stuff with his lowest strikeout total since June 11 and most walks since July 22. The 37-year-old lines up to face the Diamondbacks on Thursday.
Sep 11 2021Morton pitched seven innings against Miami on Saturday, allowing three runs on six hits and no walks while striking out seven. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Things looked bleak for the veteran hurler early on, as Miami tagged him for three runs through two innings. However, Morton rebounded by holding the Marlins to just two hits and no runs the rest of the way. The right-hander tossed 64 of 91 pitches for strikes and gave Atlanta seven innings for the second straight outing. He'll carry a 3.49 ERA into his next start, which is expected to come in San Francisco next weekend.
Sep 6 2021Morton signed a one-year, $20 million contract extension with Atlanta on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton is slated to spend at least one more season in Atlanta, and his deal includes a $20 million club option for the 2023 campaign. The 37-year-old sputtered to a 5.08 ERA and 1.44 WHIP in 39 innings across his first eight starts of the season, but he's turned things around recently with a 2.79 ERA and 40:7 K:BB in 29 innings across his last five appearances.
Aug 31 2021Morton didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 3-2 loss to the Dodgers, allowing one run on three hits and two walks with eight strikeouts in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had his best stuff working Tuesday, retiring nine of the first 10 Dodgers he faced before surrendering a Mookie Betts solo home run as the only blemish. The 37-year-old departed with the lead after the sixth inning, but Atlanta's bullpen was unable to deliver Morton his 13th win. He concludes August with a 2-2 record despite a low 3.09 ERA in six starts this month.
Aug 24 2021Morton (12-5) allowed four runs on six hits with nine strikeouts through five innings, taking the loss in Tuesday's 5-4 defeat to the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The strikeouts keep piling up for Morton, but this wasn't one of his masterful outings. Entering play, the 37-year-old hadn't given up a homer since Aug. 1. That streak ended when Giancarlo Stanton went yard in the second, followed by DJ LeMahieu in the fifth. Morton did still find the strike zone with over 70 percent of his pitches, but the four runs allowed won't be doing his ERA any favors. Neither will his next assignment, as it will likely come against the Dodgers on Tuesday.
Aug 19 2021Morton improved to 12-4 after limiting the Marlins to two runs while striking out nine over six innings Wednesday in Atlanta's 11-9 victory. He scattered three hits and a walk in the 89-pitch start. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The final outcome doesn't properly illustrate how dominant Morton was in one of his better outings of the season. He held the Marlins hitless through 4.1 innings, and he probably could have worked into the seventh if Atlanta didn't already hold a commanding 7-2 lead at the time of his departure. After a rocky start to the season, Morton has settled in nicely as Atlanta's ace since about mid-June. Over his last 12 starts, Morton has gone 7-1 with a 2.55 ERA, 0.91 WHIP and 10.8 K/9.
Aug 13 2021Morton (11-4) allowed two runs on six hits and two walks while striking out seven in six innings to earn the win over the Nationals on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton got off to a shaky start following Friday's lengthy delay, as he gave up a double and a pair of singles to begin the bottom of the first inning. However, he forced a sacrifice fly before a double play ended the inning. The right-hander was forced to settle for a loss and a no-decision in his last two starts, but he returned to the win column against the Nationals. Across his first three outings in August, Morton has posted a 2.00 ERA and 0.89 WHIP in 18 innings. He tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Miami on Wednesday.
Aug 7 2021Morton did not factor in the decision against Washington on Saturday despite pitching six scoreless innings during which he gave up three hits and two walks while striking out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Nationals struggled to figure out Morton throughout his six frames, as they managed only three hits against him. When the right-hander got himself in trouble by allowing two walks and a single in the sixth, he responded by striking out the side to keep Washington off the scoreboard. The dominant outing put Morton in line for his 11th win of the season, but typically steady closer Will Smith couldn't shut the door in the ninth. Morton continues to perform well in his age-37 campaign, posting a 3.52 ERA and 148:44 K:BB across 128 innings. His next start will likely come in a rematch versus the Nationals next Friday.
Aug 1 2021Morton (10-4) allowed two runs on three hits over six innings Sunday, striking out six and taking a loss against Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton served up a solo shot to Willy Adames in the first inning but turned in a few perfect innings after that. The Brewers pushed across another run in the fifth on a Jackie Bradley groundout. Over his previous eight starts, the veteran righty was 5-0 with a 2.70 ERA through 50 innings. Morton is now sporting a 3.69 ERA and a 141:42 K:BB this season. He's projected to face the Nationals at home next week.
Jul 28 2021Morton (10-3) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing three runs on five hits and two walks over five innings in a 12-5 victory over the Mets. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Atlanta scored at least two runs in each of the first four innings, giving Morton more than enough offensive support despite his shortest outing since June 11. The veteran right-hander has won five straight decisions since then, posting a 2.70 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 60:16 K:BB through 50 innings over that eight-start stretch.
Jul 22 2021Morton (9-3) allowed two earned runs on four hits and four walks while striking out eight across six innings to earn the win Thursday against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was given plenty of run support early, as Atlanta was up by six runs by the end of the fourth inning. He took advantage and was shutting out the Phillies until the seventh inning, when he surrendered a triple, double and walk prior to being pulled. Morton has been excellent in seven starts since June 17, as he's worked at least six innings in all but one start while posting a 2.40 ERA and striking out 55 across 45 frames.
Jul 20 2021Morton is no longer slated to start Game 2 of Wednesday's doubleheader against San Diego. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bryse Wilson will take the ball for Wednesday's nightcap instead. Per David O'Brien of The Athletic, Morton will now start Thursday against the Phillies.
Jul 17 2021Morton allowed three runs on six hits and three walks while striking out eight over six innings Friday against the Rays. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton allowed a pair of runs in the second inning and then later was taken yard by Ji-Man Choi which knotted the game up at three in the fifth inning. The 37-year-old righty still managed to post a quality start against his former team and recorded at least seven strikeouts for a sixth straight start. He now owns a 3.69 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 122:36 K:BB over 105 innings and is set to take the mound again next week against the Padres.
Jul 10 2021Morton (8-3) picked up the win in Friday's 5-0 victory over the Marlins, scattering two hits and two walks over seven scoreless innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In arguably his best start of the season, Morton fired 59 of 95 pitches for strikes while not allowing a runner to get past second base. The veteran right-hander has eight quality starts on the year, including four in his last five outings, and he'll carry a 3.64 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 114:33 K:BB through 99 innings into the All-Star break.
Jul 4 2021Morton allowed four runs on five hits and two walks with seven strikeouts in 5.1 innings versus Miami on Sunday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was on track for a quality start before he gave up a three-run home run to Adam Duvall in the sixth inning. Atlanta rallied from behind in the bottom of the ninth to spare Morton from the loss. The 37-year-old owns a 3.91 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 107:31 K:BB across 92 innings this year. His last start before the All-Star break is expected to be a rematch in Miami during next weekend's series.
Jun 29 2021Morton allowed three earned runs on five hits and one walk while striking out seven across six innings Tuesday against the Mets. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton held the Mets scoreless through six innings, but he remained in the game for the seventh inning. To begin that frame, he allowed a single, walk and then a three-run home run to spoil his otherwise stellar outing. Despite the disappointing conclusion, Morton continued his strong form of late, as he's now surrendered only three earned runs across his last 20.2 innings -- spanning three starts. Overall, Morton has a 3.74 ERA with a 100:29 K:BB across 86.2 frames.
Jun 23 2021Morton (7-3) picked up the win in Tuesday's 3-0 victory over the Mets, allowing only one hit and two walks over seven scoreless innings. He struck out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander seems to have figured things out, as Morton fanned double-digit batters for the first time all season while delivering his second straight shutout effort of seven innings or more and sixth quality start of the year. He's also won five of his last six trips to the mound, posting a 2.52 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 41:12 K:BB through 35.2 innings over that red-hot stretch.
Jun 17 2021Morton (6-3) fired 7.2 scoreless innings on three hits while striking out seven to earn the win over the Cardinals on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had his best start of the season by far Thursday, not allowing any runs for the first time. In addition, it was his deepest start and only the second time he didn't issue any walks. The 37-year-old has a 4.03 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP with 82 strikeouts in 73.2 innings. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday against the Mets.
Jun 11 2021Morton (5-3) yielded four runs on four hits and four walks over four innings Friday, striking out three and taking a loss against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had allowed just one run through three innings before coughing up RBI base hits to Jon Berti and Jazz Chisholm in the fourth. He threw just 48 of 84 pitches for strikes and snapped his three-game winning streak. The veteran right-hander now owns a 4.50 ERA through 66 innings this season. Morton is projected to face the Cardinals at home next week.
Jun 5 2021Morton (5-2) allowed four runs (two earned) on four hits and a walk with five strikeouts in five innings. He earned the win Saturday versus the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Atlanta's defense was directly responsible for two of the four runs on Morton's line, which likely played a part in a somewhat short outing. Despite the inefficiency, he's now won three straight starts. The right-hander owns a 4.21 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 72:22 K:BB in 62 innings across 12 starts. He lines up for his next start in Miami during next weekend's series.
May 31 2021Morton (4-2) allowed three runs on six hits and three walks with six strikeouts in five innings to earn the win Monday versus Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had a shaky fourth inning -- he gave up a two-run home run to Josh Bell and an RBI single to opposing pitcher Joe Ross. Other than that, it was a decent effort for Morton's second consecutive win. The right-hander has a 4.11 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 67:21 K:BB across 57 innings this year. He lines up to face the Dodgers this weekend in his next start.
May 26 2021Morton (3-2) earned the win Tuesday against the Red Sox after allowing an unearned run on three hits and two walks while fanning nine across seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has given up one or fewer runs in three of his last four starts and also tied his season-high mark for strikeouts in this one. The veteran decreased his ERA to 3.98 and will try to extend this excellent run of form in his next start, scheduled for Sunday against the Mets on the road.
May 19 2021Morton allowed a run on two hits and struck out eight over six innings versus the Mets on Wednesday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only damage on the right-hander's line was a Jonathan Villar solo home run in the fourth inning. Morton hadn't posted a quality start since April 20. The 37-year-old has a 4.60 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 52:16 K:BB across 45 innings this season. He'll look to maintain this level of performance next week versus Boston.
May 13 2021Morton allowed three runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out four in 4.2 innings in Thursday's loss to the Blue Jays. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been quite inconsistent to begin the season, and he's now allowed at least three runs in each of his last four starts. The right-hander hasn't pitched more than six innings in any of his first eight starts of the year, and he's posted a 5.08 ERA and 1.44 WHIP in 39 innings. Morton tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Mets on Tuesday.
May 8 2021Morton (2-2) took the loss Friday in a 12-2 rout at the hands of the Phillies, coughing up six unearned runs on four hits and two walks over only two-thirds of an inning. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A William Contreras passed ball on a Rhys Hoskins strikeout allowed the Philly first baseman to get aboard, and Morton seemed to unravel after that. The right-hander finally exited the game after he walked Zach Eflin. The Contreras gaffe saved Morton's ERA, but he isn't giving Atlanta the length and consistency it was hoping for when it signed him in the offseason. He'll carry a 4.98 ERA and 40:14 K:BB through 34.1 innings, numbers right in line with last year's performance for Tampa Bay, into his next outing.
May 1 2021Morton allowed four earned runs on five hits and two walks while striking out six across 5.1 innings in the loss to the Blue Jays on Saturday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton allowed a two-run home run to George Springer in the third inning. He also ran himself into trouble in the sixth inning after hitting Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and walking Teoscar Hernandez with no outs. However, the 37-year-old has consistently provided strikeouts with six in his third straight start, totaling 39 in 33.2 innings this season.
Apr 26 2021Morton (2-1) picked up the win in Monday's 8-7 victory over the Cubs, coughing up five runs on four hits and three walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Atlanta handed the veteran right-hander a 4-0 lead in the first inning, but Morton gave it all back in the top of the third by serving up a grand slam to Kris Bryant before his offense took the lead for good in the fifth. Morton threw only 53 of 89 pitches for strikes, and he'll take a 4.76 ERA and 33:10 K:BB through 28.1 innings into his next outing this weekend on the road against the Blue Jays.
Apr 20 2021Morton didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 3-1 loss to the Yankees, allowing one run on three hits and two walks over six innings while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran righty served up a solo homer to Gio Urshela but was otherwise sharp, tossing 64 of 99 pitches for strikes. Unfortunately for Morton, Atlanta's hitters couldn't get much going either. He'll carry a 3.91 ERA and 27:7 K:BB through 23 innings into his next outing, set for Monday at home against the Cubs.
Apr 14 2021Morton didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 6-5 extra-inning loss to the Marlins, coughing up five runs on seven hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran righty got taken deep by Jazz Chisholm in the third inning and left the game in line for the loss after tossing 96 pitches (62 strikes), but two answering blasts from (who else) Ronald Acuna eventually tied the game and got Morton off the hook. He'll take a 4.76 ERA and 21:5 K:BB over 17 innings into his next outing, set for Tuesday on the road against the Yankees.
Apr 9 2021Morton (1-1) picked up the win Friday, allowing one run on four hits and a walk over six innings in an 8-1 victory over the Phillies. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander got a lot more run support than he did in his season debut, but Morton didn't need much in the strong outing. He fired 58 of 83 pitches for strikes, and Morton will carry a 3.27 ERA and 12:3 K:BB through 11 innings into his next start, set for Wednesday at home against the Marlins.
Apr 3 2021Morton (0-1) took the loss Saturday as Atlanta fell 4-0 to the Phillies, giving up three runs on six hits and two walks over five innings while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander turned in a respectable performance, tossing 50 of 76 pitches for strikes, but he had no margin for error with Atlanta managing only one hit against Zack Wheeler and the Philly bullpen. Morton will try to get some revenge in a rematch against the Phillies on Friday back in Atlanta.
Mar 18 2021Morton sat 93-95 mph with his fastball during Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Orioles, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. "In spring training last year, I don't know if I ever got [to that velocity]," Morton said afterward. "Last year, I just never got going. ... I came into [summer camp] and I didn't feel good." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander didn't have his typical fastball velocity until September last year, so it's very encouraging to see that he should head into Opening Day already firing his usual heat. Morton built up to 4.1 innings Wednesday, and he has a 0.00 ERA and 7:2 K:BB through 7.1 frames this spring.
Mar 8 2021Morton struck out three and walked one over three scoreless innings during Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander got his spring off to a flying start. Morton stumbled to a 4.74 ERA and 1.39 WHIP in an abbreviated 2020 campaign with some serious regression in his strikeout rate (23.0 percent, after a career-high 30.4 percent in 2019), but Atlanta is counting on him to rebound to something closer to his 3.45 FIP and shore up the middle of the team's rotation after signing him to a one-year deal this offseason.
Mar 6 2021Morton will no longer pitch in Saturday's spring game against the Rays after the game was canceled due to inclement weather, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was slated to make his spring debut Saturday, but his start will be pushed back due to rain. It's not yet clear when the 37-year-old will make his first Grapefruit League appearance in 2021.
Nov 24 2020Morton agreed Tuesday with the Braves on a one-year, $15 million contract, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As the 37-year-old prepares for what could be his final season in the big leagues, he'll return to the organization that originally drafted him back in 2002. While Morton never found success at the MLB level during his time in Atlanta, he's quietly emerged as one of baseball's more reliable starters over the back nine of his career, submitting sub-4.00 ERAs and sub-1.20 WHIPs in three of the past four seasons. While missing time with a shoulder injury in the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign, Morton finished with a 4.74 ERA and 1.39 WHIP across 38 innings, but the underlying peripherals (18.8 K-BB%, 0.9 HR/9, 3.89 xERA) were generally encouraging. After having his $15 million club option declined by the Rays earlier this offseason, Morton will end up taking home the same payday while he moves on to Atlanta.
Oct 30 2020Morton's team option was declined by the Rays on Friday, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's option would have paid him $15 million. While the Rays are famously hesitant to spend, and while the pandemic is expected to suppress wages this offseason, that's still seemingly quite a good price for a pitcher who has posted a 3.34 ERA over the last four years, so the decision is something of an odd one. Morton will turn 37 in November, and he did post a 4.74 ERA in nine regular-season starts in 2020, though his 3.45 FIP indicated that was likely a small-sample blip, and he bounced back with a 2.70 ERA in four playoff starts. It's conceivable that this transaction foreshadows a retirement for the veteran righty, though no such decision has been announced by the team or the player.
Oct 24 2020Morton allowed five runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out six across 4.1 innings to take the loss against the Dodgers in Game 3 of the World Series on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton never settled into the start after allowing a solo home run to Justin Turner in the first inning. He then surrendered a pair of runs in both the third and fourth frames, with the final result being a short and subpar outing. Other than this effort, Morton has been excellent in the postseason, maintaining a 2.70 ERA with a 23:5 K:BB across 20 frames.
Oct 18 2020Morton threw 5.2 shutout innings to pick up the win in Game 7 of the ALCS against the Astros on Saturday, striking out six while allowing just two hits and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was dominant against his former team, not allowing a single runner to reach scoring position until there were two outs in the sixth inning. He's built up quite an impressive postseason resume in recent years, earning victories in Game 7 of both the ALCS and World Series as a member of the Astros in 2017 as well as a wild-card win with the Rays last season. He's now the first pitcher with four career wins in winner-take-all postseason games.
Oct 13 2020Morton picked up the win in Game 2 of the ALCS against the Astros on Monday, striking out five while walking one and allowing five hits in five shutout innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It took Morton 96 pitches to get through five innings against his former team, though the Rays don't seem to mind trusting their deep bullpen with quite a few innings most nights. The veteran righty didn't retire the side in order until his fifth and final frame, though he only once allowed a runner to reach scoring position with less than two outs. Morton likely lines up to start Game 7, should the series go that far.
Oct 7 2020Morton picked up the win during Game 3 of the ALDS against the Yankees on Wednesday after allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits with six strikeouts and two walks over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old ran into trouble during the third inning but stranded the bases loaded after giving up a run, and he stranded a runner on second base after giving up a run-scoring double during the fifth inning. Morton had a strong outing in his first playoff start of the year and will look to carry that into the ALCS if the Rays can close out the series.
Sep 26 2020Morton allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits and one walk while striking out eight over five innings in Friday's win against the Phillies. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton sputtered in the third inning Friday as he gave up three runs, and he left the game with the Rays trailing. The team went on a late run to secure the win, but the production came too late to put Morton in line for the win. The right-hander posted a 4.74 ERA and 1.39 WHIP over 38 innings during the regular season and should serve as a starter during the postseason.
Sep 19 2020Morton (2-2) earned the win over Baltimore on Saturday, hurling five innings and allowing one run on five hits and two walks while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For just the second time since returning from the injured list on Sept. 2, Morton was able to make it through five innings, yielding a single run to pick up his first victory since Aug. 4. Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of his performance was his final pitch count of 94, which bodes well for the veteran's ability to throw without limitations in the postseason. Between a shoulder injury that cost him nearly three weeks and an uncharacteristic 4.64 ERA, the 2020 campaign has been mostly disappointing for Morton, but he could provide a significant boost to the Rays' rotation if he's able to peak heading into the playoffs. He'll have one more regular-season tuneup, currently scheduled for Friday at home versus Philadelphia.
Sep 13 2020Morton allowed three runs on six hits and no walks while striking out four over 4.1 innings in Sunday's loss to the Red Sox. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Rays' offense provided Morton with a narrow lead in the fourth inning, but the advantage quickly slipped away in the top of the fifth inning, forcing him to settle for a no-decision. On a more encouraging note, the right-hander threw 77 pitches (55 strikes) as he continues to steadily build back up to full strength following his month-long absence. Barring any setbacks, the right-hander should be able to handle a full workload by the time the postseason begins in two weeks. Morton's next start should come on the road Saturday against Baltimore.
Sep 7 2020Morton (1-2) took the loss Monday, giving up three runs on four hits and a walk over five innings in a 6-1 loss to the Nationals. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander threw 57 pitches (45 strikes) before exiting, as he continues to build his stamina back up after his month-long absence from the rotation. Morton now has a 4.94 ERA and 24:7 K:BB through 23.2 innings this season, but he should at least be close to fully stretched out for his next start Sunday, at home against the Red Sox.
Sep 2 2020Morton allowed no hits and two walks while striking out four across two innings Wednesday against the Yankees. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton threw 36 pitches in his first game action since Aug. 9. He showed some rust as only 20 of his 36 pitches found the zone, but was still effective overall. Perhaps most importantly, he was regularly hitting 95 mph with his fastball at the beginning of his outing, with his velocity fading a bit as his pitch count rose. Morton will likely remain on a limited pitch count in his next outing, currently projected for Tuesday at the Nationals.
Aug 31 2020Morton (shoulder) will return from the injured list to start Wednesday against the Yankees, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been out since early August with shoulder inflammation. He owns a poor 5.40 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP through four starts this season, though nearly all the damage was done in his poor season debut against the Blue Jays, who scored six runs off him in just four innings. It's not clear what sort of workload he'll be able to handle immediately upon his return, though he'll likely be on some sort of pitch count.
Aug 30 2020Manager Kevin Cash said Morton (shoulder) will likely return from the 10-day injured list to start either Tuesday or Wednesday against the Yankees, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's shoulder responded well to his latest bullpen session Saturday, leaving Cash optimistic that the right-hander will be ready to rejoin the rotation this week. Before he was shut down with the shoulder injury, Morton recorded a 5.40 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 17:4 K:BB In 16.2 innings over his four starts.
Aug 28 2020Morton (shoulder) will throw one more bullpen session before the Rays consider reinserting him into the rotation, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander completed a simulated game Thursday and threw 25-to-30 pitches, but the team wants at least one more session on the mound before making a decision. If all goes well in the next bullpen session, Morton could rejoin the starting rotation sometime next week, though he's unlikely to be built up to a full workload by that point.
Aug 27 2020Morton's (shoulder) sim game Thursday went well, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was scheduled to throw 25-to-30 pitches over two innings Thursday, and that session went well. Manager Kevin Cash called the sim game a "big step in the right direction." Despite his positive progress Thursday, it still remains unclear when the right-hander could return to the starting rotation.
Aug 26 2020Morton (shoulder) will throw a simulated game Thursday, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had a successful bullpen session Monday, and he's set to throw 25-to-30 pitches over two innings during a sim game Thursday. A timeline for the right-hander's return to the Rays' rotation still hasn't been established, but he's been making positive strides in his recovery so far.
Aug 25 2020Morton (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Monday that went well, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has progressed smoothly in his recovery from right shoulder inflammation, and he cleared another hurdle with a successful 25-pitch bullpen. The team still hasn't decided whether his next throwing session will be another bullpen or live batting practice. It's unclear when the right-hander will be ready for game action.
Aug 24 2020Rays manager Kevin Cash said Morton (shoulder) will throw a 25-pitch bullpen session Tuesday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A successful bullpen session would mark another key checkpoint in the recovery process for Morton, who resumed throwing long toss over the weekend. Unless the Rays elect to accelerate Morton's return to the active roster, he likely won't be reinstated from the injured list this week and will instead face hitters in live batting practice or a simulated game if Tuesday's side session goes according to plan. Morton has been sidelined since Aug. 9 with right shoulder inflammation.
Aug 23 2020Morton (shoulder) was scheduled for a long-toss session Sunday, Alyson Footer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been making steady, setback-free progress via bullpen sessions over the last several days, and there had even been talk at one point he could be activated to start a game during the ongoing weekend series against the Blue Jays. That possibility was eventually ruled out, but Morton could be close to a return if he continues to build his arm strength up without any issues. The veteran right-hander noted it's a bit of a tightrope walk at the moment, considering that it's necessary at times to up the intensity of the throwing sessions to get an accurate assessment of progress while acknowledging such a strategy also comes with an element of risk.
Aug 21 2020Morton (shoulder) is not expected to come off the injured list and make a start in the weekend series against the Blue Jays, Alyson Footer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: There had been some optimism Morton would be able to show enough progress to come off the injured list when first scheduled Saturday, but manager Kevin Cash nixed that possibility Thursday. The Rays continue to be short-handed after Yonny Chirinos (elbow) suffered a season-ending injury earlier this week, but Morton will not be rushed back regardless. The veteran was slated for a bullpen session Friday, which could provide further insight as to whether an early-week activation might be in the cards.
Aug 20 2020Morton (shoulder) played catch Wednesday as scheduled and is slated to throw another bullpen session Thursday or Friday, the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander seems to be progressing steadily in his recovery, and it's a good sign he was able to play catch Wednesday after engaging in what was described as a "pretty intense" bullpen session Tuesday. The chances of Morton being activated when first eligible Saturday should become clearer after the upcoming throwing session.
Aug 19 2020Morton (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Tuesday described by manager Kevin Cash as "pretty intense", the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander is also slated to play catch Wednesday, continuing his steady progression toward a return. Morton has been able to get through multiple catch and bullpen sessions consistently over the last several days without setbacks, so he appears to be trending toward possible activation in the coming days.
Aug 15 2020Morton (shoulder) threw a 20-pitch bullpen session Saturday and felt good afterwards, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton continues to take small steps forward in terms of his progression after being diagnosed with shoulder inflammation last weekend. The veteran right-hander is expected to play catch Sunday and Monday before another bullpen session Tuesday. As long as he doesn't suffer any setbacks in the process, Morton should be activated Thursday, when he become eligible for activation.
Aug 14 2020Morton (shoulder) felt good during a catch session Friday and could throw a bullpen session Saturday or Sunday at the team's alternate training site in Port Charlotte, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was placed on the injured list with shoulder inflammation Monday, but he appears to be making steady progress. Morton was already throwing from 120 feet by Thursday, and manager Kevin Cash mentioned Friday that Morton gave him the "thumbs up" with regards to his latest session. The 30-year-old could potentially be activated when first eligible Thursday if he continues trending in the right direction.
Aug 13 2020Manager Kevin Cash said Morton (shoulder) threw from 120 feet Thursday, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton felt good during Thursday's throwing session and is expected to throw from 120 feet again Friday. The right-hander is eligible to return from the injured list next week, though the Rays have yet to indicate whether he'll be ready to return following a minimum stay on the shelf.
Aug 10 2020The Rays placed Morton (shoulder) on the 10-day injured list Monday, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Morton suggested after exiting his start Sunday against the Yankees that his inflamed right shoulder wasn't much of a concern, the Rays evidently felt the 36-year-old could benefit from at least a week and a half of rest. A clearer target date for Morton's return should emerge once he's allowed to resume throwing, but until then, the Rays will need to add a new member to their rotation. Trevor Richards covered four innings in long relief after Morton's early departure and seemingly represents the most logical option to take the bump when the Rays require a new fifth starter Saturday against the Blue Jays in Buffalo.
Aug 9 2020Morton said he's "not worried about missing much time" after exiting Sunday's start with right shoulder inflammation, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander labored through two innings versus the Yankees, and he was removed after allowing one run on three hits with two walks and one strikeout. Morton's progression over the next few days figures to determine his availability for his next turn through the rotation, which currently lines up for Saturday against the Blue jays. Trevor Richards, who entered in long relief Sunday, is a likely candidate to enter the rotation should Morton miss any time.
Aug 4 2020Morton (1-1) allowed one earned run on five hits and no walks while striking out five across 5.2 innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton held Boston's lineup in check, with the only major damage he surrendered coming on a solo home run by Mitch Moreland. Perhaps most importantly, Morton saw his velocity tick up, as he he sat between 93 and 94 mph for much of his start. Morton has a 5.52 ERA through 14.2 innings this season, though that is inflated by his first start when he surrendered six earned runs. His 14:2 K:BB suggests better results are on the way, and he'll look to deliver in his next start, currently projected for Sunday against the Yankees.
Jul 29 2020Morton pitched five innings against the Braves on Wednesday, allowing two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out seven. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's second start of the campaign was a marked improvement over his Opening Day outing in which he allowed six earned runs. The right-hander was hurt by a two-run home run off the bat of Freddie Freeman in the third inning, but he held Atlanta scoreless in each of his other four frames while throwing 55 of 80 pitches for strikes. Morton will aim for his first win of the campaign Tuesday in a home game against Boston.
Jul 24 2020Morton (0-1) allowed six runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out four over four innings as he was charged with the loss Friday against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had built up to just 51 pitches in his final tuneup, and although he threw 80 pitches in his Opening Day start, he struggled late in the outing. After firing three scoreless innings, the right-hander allowed three runs in the fourth and fifth innings prior to his removal. While his season didn't go as planned, the 36-year-old will look to build on a 2019 season in which he put up a career-best 3.05 ERA and 240 strikeouts over 194.2 innings across 33 starts with the Rays. Morton will look to bounce back on the road Wednesday against the Braves.
Jul 19 2020Morton threw 31 of 51 pitches for strikes in his final tuneup before his Opening Day start at home against the Blue Jays, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton struck out five and walked one while allowing three hits in an informal 2.2 innings. He will probably be able to get to five-plus innings Friday if he is efficient with his pitches, but there are other Opening Day starters who have built up well past the 51 pitches Morton threw in this intrasquad outing. His second start of the season will be July 29 in Atlanta, and he lines up for a two-start week the following week.
Jul 18 2020Manager Kevin Cash said Saturday that he expects Morton will start Opening Day, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The announcement comes as little surprise, and the Rays are using Morton on a timeline that should allow him to be fully rested once the regular season begins July 24. The right-hander is scheduled to pitch in Sunday's intrasquad matchup, which should be his final outing of camp prior to the start of the season. Morton's Opening Day start will be his second in as many seasons in Tampa Bay. He finished 2019 with a career-best 2.05 ERA and 1.08 WHIP with 240 strikeouts over 194.2 innings.
Jul 8 2020Morton threw four innings in Wednesday's simulated game, allowing two runs and recording three strikeouts, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. "Overall I felt pretty good," Morton said. "The last live [pitching session] I threw was in the lab here, so really, I think my stuff is getting to where it needs to be. ... I felt like I was working on my endurance and still had pretty decent stuff in the fourth [inning]. I'm pretty optimistic about everything overall." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander faced the quartet of Yandy Diaz, Michael Perez, Daniel Robertson and Joey Wendle and threw 37 of his 47 pitches for strikes. Morton reportedly looked particularly sharp with his breaking ball, but he did allow two hits to Diaz and a home run to deep right field to Perez.
Jul 3 2020Morton expects to be able to throw four innings once regular-season play begins, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Just how long starting pitchers are able to go in their first few starts this season will have a significant impact on their respective fantasy values, as a limited pitch count in just two or three starts would represent a significant portion of the their total number of starts given the 60-game schedule. Individual pitchers' readiness may vary widely based on their particular circumstances during the past few months. Morton's own assessment indicates that he's unlikely to be eligible for a win in his first start of the year, but he'll likely be ready to clear the five-inning threshold in his second start.
Jul 2 2020Morton isn't expected to be under any restrictions in terms of workload during the truncated 2020 season and enters Friday's start of summer camp with a well-conditioned arm, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander was originally slated to be monitored carefully in a 2020 season of normal duration, considering both is age and the fact he logged a career-high 33 starts in 2019. Naturally, the eradication of 102 games from the schedule eases the potential wear and tear on Morton's arm significantly, and as such, he's considered "full-go" by the coaching staff. Additionally, Morton should be able to hit the ground running in the coming ramp-up to the regular season, considering he's worked up to over 50 pitches in his recent throwing sessions at Tropicana Field and also recently completed three innings of a simulated game.
Jun 6 2020Morton was one of several Rays pitchers to throw off a mound at Tropicana Field on Friday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Friday marked the first day pitchers were able to use bullpen mounds since the team resumed workouts May 25. Morton took immediate advantage along with several of his teammates, throwing 15-25 pitches to a pair of bullpen catchers. Pitching coach Kyle Snyder oversaw the throwing sessions and came away impressed with all who participated, noting each player seemed to be in good shape despite the restrictions of the last several weeks.
Apr 6 2020Morton was one of several Rays pitchers nearing the end of their spring throwing programs before play was suspended, Josh Tolentino of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander had only made two Grapefruit League appearances (3.1 innings) before spring training was suspended, but he'd also worked in multiple simulated games while getting stretched out. Morton continues to work out as much as he can on his own while play is paused, and he projects to serve as one of the team's top three starters whenever the regular season does begin.
Mar 6 2020Morton is slated to work multiple simulated games over the next week and make just one more Grapefruit League appearance in anticipation of a likely Opening Day start, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander was originally scheduled to make his next Grapefruit League start Sunday against his old Pirates squad, but he'll instead work four innings and build up to approximately 60 pitches in a simulated environment on the backfields of the Rays' spring training complex. Morton will then repeat the process approximately five or six days later, with the goal of reaching five innings/75 pitches in that outing. That would leave Morton a chance to make a final spring start March 20 against the Nationals and then have the benefit of six days of rest before the regular-season opener against Pittsburgh.
Feb 26 2020Morton was credited with a win in a Grapefruit League victory over the Orioles on Tuesday, firing a scoreless first inning during which he issued one walk and recorded a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 36-year-old right-hander threw just 11 pitches overall, with the free pass he issued to Chris Davis his only hiccup. Morton ultimately threw one breaking pitch during the outing, a fact that Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports left the veteran pitcher displeased but manager Kevin Cash wholly unconcerned. "He's got how many years in the big leagues - 12? We're not going to value whether he throws one breaking ball or 10 in his first spring training outing," Cash said. Morton will have a chance to diversify his repertoire in a likely start at some point this coming weekend.
Feb 20 2020Morton appeared to be in "midseason form" during a 30-pitch live batting practice session Thursday, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander is coming off the best season of his career, one in which he established new high-water marks in innings (194.2), strikeouts (240), wins (16), ERA (3.05) and WHIP (1.08) across 33 starts. Therefore, the fact Morton already looked exceedingly sharp during his first time facing hitters this spring is particularly encouraging, and manager Kevin Cash emphasized the 36-year-old's breaking ball was especially effective during the session.
Oct 9 2019Morton will be available out of the bullpen for Game 5 of the American League Division Series against the Astros on Thursday, Hunter Atkins of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Kevin Cash confirmed that the 35-year-old will be ready to pitch in relief Thursday after throwing 93 pitches in Monday's win. In two starts this postseason, Morton has allowed two runs (one earned) on eight hits and five walks while recording 13 strikeouts in 10 innings pitched.
Sep 29 2019Manager Kevin Cash confirmed Morton would start Wednesday in the Rays' American League wild-card matchup with the Athletics, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton closed out a spectacular first season with Tampa Bay in style Wednesday, tossing six scoreless frames to lower his ERA to 3.05. He'll return to the rubber on six days' rest in a win-or-go-home matchup with the Athletics, who are likely to send Sean Manaea to the mound for the contest.
Sep 28 2019Morton, who last pitched Wednesday, is the likeliest candidate to draw a start for Wednesday's American League Wild Card Game, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been a stalwart of the Rays' traditional starting pitchers this season, as evidenced by a 16-6 record, 3.05 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and eye-popping 240 strikeouts across 194.2 innings. The right-hander thus shapes up as a natural candidate for a high-leverage scenario such as a one-game playoff, and both his 13.1 innings of one-run ball over two starts against the opposing Athletics this season and Morton's past postseason experience only serve to further his formidable case. Manager Kevin Cash is expected to make a final decision regarding the all-important matter by weekend's end, and if Morton does get the call, he'll do so on six days' rest.
Sep 26 2019Morton (16-6) picked up the win in Wednesday's 4-0 victory over the Yankees, allowing one hit and three walks over six scoreless innings while striking out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The hit -- a two-out single in the sixth inning by DJ LeMahieu -- was the only one the Rays staff gave up on the night. Barring an appearance in a potential play-in game, Morton wraps up his 2019 with a 3.05 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 240:57 K:BB through 194.2 innings, marking career-best performances across the board.
Sep 20 2019Morton allowed two runs on five hits and a walk while striking out eight over 6.1 innings Friday against the Red Sox. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton made it through the first six innings unscathed, but he surrendered a two-run blast in the seventh inning before being lifted from the contest. The 35-year-old is 2-0 over his last four starts, allowing three or fewer runs in each outing. He owns a 3.15 ERA and 1.10 WHIP with a 231:54 K:BB over 188.2 frames this season for the Rays.
Sep 13 2019Morton (15-6) earned the win Friday, holding the Angels to three runs on six hits and a walk while striking out four across six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Aside from giving up a two-run home run to Kole Calhoun in the third inning, Morton turned in yet another quality start en route to posting his second consecutive 15-win season. This time around, the right-hander has 18 more strikeouts with a similar ERA compared to his 2018 campaign with Houston. In his last three starts against the Angels, Morton has now given up 11 runs across 16 innings, though it hardly mattered this time with a mountain of run support from his offense. The 35-year-old will take a 3.16 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 223:53 K:BB into a tough matchup at Dodger Stadium on Wednesday.
Sep 7 2019Morton struck out 10 while allowing three runs on five hits with two walks across six innings during a no-decision against the Blue Jays on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander posted 10 strikeouts for the third time in his last six outings, giving him 45 in a 33.1-inning span. Morton failed to win this outing, but he remains one victory shy of tying a career high. He is 14-6 with a 3.11 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 219 strikeouts in 176.1 innings this season. Morton will start again at the Rangers on Thursday.
Sep 1 2019Morton (14-6) gave up one earned run on four hits and three walks with eight strikeouts over 5.1 innings as he earned his 14th win of the year.
Aug 28 2019Morton (13-6) took the loss Tuesday, coughing up six runs on seven hits and two walks over four innings while striking out four as the Rays were trounced 15-1 by
Aug 21 2019Morton allowed three runs on four hits with two walks and three strikeouts across five innings during a no-decision against the Mariners on Wednesday.
Aug 16 2019Morton (13-5) took the loss Friday, giving up an unearned run on three hits over seven innings while striking out 10 as the Rays fell 2-0 to the Tigers.
Aug 10 2019Morton (13-4) allowed four runs on nine hits over six innings, striking out 10 and earning the win in Saturday's 5-4 win over the Mariners.
Aug 5 2019Morton (12-4) gave up two runs on seven hits and no walks while striking out nine through seven innings to take the loss against the Blue Jays on Monday.
Jul 31 2019Morton allowed four runs on seven hits with two walks and two strikeouts across 4.2 innings during a no-decision against the Red Sox on Tuesday.
Jul 24 2019Morton (12-3) picked up the win in Wednesday's 3-2 victory over the Red Sox, giving up two runs on five hits over seven innings while striking out 11.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 18 2019Morton (11-3) took the loss in Game 2 of the Rays' doubleheader with the Yankees on Thursday, giving up five earned runs on five hits over 5.2 innings, striking out four and walking four as Tampa Bay fell 5-1.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 17 2019Morton is scheduled to start Game 2 of Thursday's doubleheader against the Yankees, Juan Toribio of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2019Morton (11-2) earned the win in Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader at Baltimore after giving up two runs on six hits across six innings. He struck out six and walked one.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 7 2019Morton (10-2) struck out 10 while allowing one run on five hits and one walk through 5.2 innings to take the win over the Yankees on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 2 2019Morton (9-2) allowed one earned run on four hits and a walk while striking out 12 across seven innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Orioles.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 29 2019Morton's next scheduled start will be pushed back from Monday to Tuesday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 26 2019Morton (8-2) was charged with the loss against the Twins on Wednesday after surrendering five runs (three earned) on eight hits and a walk while striking out seven through 6.1 innings.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 21 2019Morton didn't factor into the decision in Thursday's loss to the Athletics and allowed an earned run on four hits and two walks across 6.1 innings. He struck out six.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 15 2019Morton (8-1) took the loss Saturday, allowing four runs on five hits and two walks while striking out nine over six innings against the Angels.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 10 2019Morton (8-0) allowed two hits and two walks while firing seven scoreless innings Monday, striking out seven batters and earning the win over the Athletics.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 5 2019Morton (7-0) picked up the win Wednesday, allowing five hits over seven scoreless innings while striking out eight as the Rays handed the Tigers a 4-0 defeat.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 30 2019Morton (6-0) earned the win Thursday against the Twins by allowing two runs on four hits and no walks across seven innings. He struck out six.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019Morton (5-0) racked up 10 strikeouts and allowed just an earned run on three hits, two walks and a hit batsman over six innings in a win over the Indians on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 19 2019Morton gave up five runs (three earned) on four hits and four walks while striking out six through four innings in a no-decision against the Yankees on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 14 2019Morton (4-0) pitched six innings of scoreless three-hit ball, striking out five to earn the win in a 4-0 win over the Marlins on Tuesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 8 2019Morton allowed two runs on seven hits with eight strikeouts and four walks across five innings in a no-decision against the Diamondbacks on Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 12 2018Morton allowed three earned runs over 4.1 innings in a no-decision Thursday against the A's. He notched five strikeouts but allowed six hits and two walks.It was a laborious 4.1 innings for Morton, who threw 104 pitches in that span with just 65 of them going for strikes. Morton made it through the first four innings mostly unscathed with just two hits allowed, but the wheels came off in the fifth when he loaded the bases to start the inning and allowed a two-run double to Nick Martini. His swing-and-miss stuff was still on display as he induced 11 whiffs in his outing Thursday, but this marks two shaky starts in a row for Morton. He'll make his next start after the All-Star break.
Jul 7 2018Morton (11-2) allowed five earned runs on five hits and two walks while striking out eight across 5.2 innings to earn the win Saturday against the White Sox.Morton was pitching well through five innings but loaded the bases in the sixth inning, which led to four runs scoring in the frame. More specifically, the trouble began when Morton worked through the White Sox order for the third time. However, that has not been a consistent problem for him this season as he has surrendered a .374 slugging percentage to hitters the third time he faces them in a game. Despite the subpar outing, Morton still has a 2.83 ERA for the season, with Saturday's start being the first time he has surrendered more than three earned runs in a start since June 3.
Jul 1 2018Morton (10-2) surrendered two runs on six hits and two walks while striking out 11 across 6.2 innings as he was handed the loss Sunday against Tampa Bay.Morton cruised through six scoreless innings, but he gave up a two-RBI single to Matt Duffy in the bottom of the seventh, which gave the Rays a 2-1 lead. Morton certainly deserved a better fate after working into the seventh with just two runs allowed. Prior to Sunday's outing, he hadn't allowed a run over his last two starts (13 innings) and had 17 strikeouts over that span. Morton will look to continue his recent success in his next start Saturday against the White Sox.
Jun 27 2018Morton (10-1) struck out 13 in seven scoreless innings Tuesday against the Blue Jays, allowing four hits and two walks on way to a win.Morton issued no extra-base hits and threw 67 of 98 pitches for strikes in his dominant outing against Toronto. This was the fifth game this season that Morton has recorded double-digit strikeouts, and he now sports a 122:39 K:BB in 95.2 innings. Morton has a .195 batting average against, making him one of only seven pitchers in the majors holding opponents under a .200 average. His next start will be against the Rays in Tampa Bay.
Jun 20 2018Morton (9-1) allowed just one unearned run on two hits and four walks with four strikeouts through six innings in a win Wednesday over the Astros.Morton continues to succeed despite aberrant control. This marks the fifth time Morton has walked at least four batters and the second time he has managed to still complete a quality start despite the free passes. Morton was still nasty, as he induced 15 swinging strikes, and the Rays were never able to mount a serious rally. Morton failed to complete a quality start in his first two starts in May, but he looks to be back on track. He'll get a test against another American League East foe Tuesday against Toronto.
Jun 16 2018Morton (8-1) struck out nine and walked four in a win over the Royals on Friday, allowing three runs on four hits in six innings.Morton gave up a two-run double to Mike Moustakas in the third and later walked Moustakas with the bases loaded in the fifth. The walks were again a problem for Morton (he walked six in 3.2 innings in his previous start) but he was still able to come away with the win thanks to an Evan Gattis grand slam. The right-hander holds a 2.94 ERA and 1.14 WHIP along with an excellent 105:33 K:BB in 82.2 innings. His next matchup will be against the Rays in a start at home.
Jun 15 2018Morton will start Friday's series opener against the Royals.Morton came unglued in his previous start, walking six and hitting four batters, and enters Friday's start on his worst stretch of the season. After going 7-0 over his first 10 starts, Morton hasn't won in three outings while posting a 6.00 ERA and 1.73 WHIP. Friday's opponent, the Royals, come at a perfect time for the struggling right-hander. Kansas City ranks 28th with 3.72 runs per game and 26th with a .684 OPS.
Jun 9 2018Morton allowed two runs (one earned) on one hit and six walks while striking out four across 3.2 innings Saturday against the Rangers. He did not factor into the decision.Morton was exceptionally wild in this start, hitting four batters on top of the six free passes he surrendered. While his line was far from sparkling, it could have been much worse for him, as he managed to strand the bases loaded in both the first and second innings while stranding runners at second and third in the third inning. After an incredible run to start the season, Morton has come back to earth of late, as he has allowed 26 baserunners across his last 15 innings.
Jun 3 2018Morton (7-1) took his first loss of the season against the Red Sox on Sunday, giving up six earned runs on nine hits over 5.1 innings, striking out seven and walking one as the Astros lost 9-3.Morton had been absolutely dominate pretty much all season coming into this matchup, but he was finally dealt his first defeat of 2018 as he got touched up for homers by Andrew Benintendi and Mitch Moreland. He's still got phenomenal numbers, as he's posted a 2.84 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP to go along with 92 strikeouts even factoring in this rough outing, so for now this can be considered a bump in the road in what has otherwise been a stellar campaign.
May 29 2018Morton allowed three runs on eight hits while walking one over six innings Tuesday against the Yankees. He struck out 10 but did not factor into the decision.Morton got off to a shaky start Tuesday, allowing a leadoff home run to Brett Gardner followed by another run in the second inning on three consecutive base knocks. He cleaned things up after that, with his only other earned run coming on an Aaron Judge fifth-inning solo shot. The 34-year-old hurler has recorded as many double-digit strikeout games this season (four) as he had in his previous 10 major-league seasons. He's seemingly morphed himself into a bonafide fantasy ace in the early going and will look to stay hot in his upcoming Sunday start against the hard-hitting Red Sox.
May 24 2018Morton (7-0) allowed two earned runs on five hits while walking three and striking out five across six innings to earn the win Thursday against the Indians.Morton stumbled in the third inning, allowing the Indians to jump out to a 2-0 lead on three hits and a walk in the frame. However, he limited them for the next three innings and the Astros' offense exploded in the meantime, helping Morton earn his American League leading seventh win. He continues to rely heavily on his curveball -- with excellent results -- as it generated eight of his nine swinging strikes on Thursday.
May 18 2018Morton (6-0) held Cleveland to one run on four hits and a walk with eight strikeouts through seven innings to pick up the win Friday night.Morton was characteristically efficient, as he needed just 97 pitches to get through seven innings and lower his ERA to a pristine 1.94. He improved his K:BB to a clean 70:18 and has allowed more than three runs just once all season long. The money pitch for Morton was the curveball, which induced seven swinging strikes on just 30 offerings. That pitch has been nasty all season. Entering Friday, Morton's 56.7 percent whiff-per-swing rate on his curveball was best in the majors. Expect him to ride that pitch all year long, including his next time out Thursday night, when he'll get another shot at Cleveland.
May 12 2018Morton (5-0) picked up the win over the Rangers on Saturday, giving up one run on four hits over seven innings while striking out a career-high 14.Aside from a Ronald Guzman solo shot in the third inning, Morton completely dominated the Rangers lineup, generating 23 swinging strikes among his 105 pitches. The right-hander will take a 2.03 ERA and eye-popping 62:17 K:BB through 48.2 innings into his next outing Friday at home against Cleveland.
May 5 2018Morton allowed three earned runs on three hits while walking four and striking out three across five innings Saturday against the Diamondbacks. He did not factor into the decision.Morton got off to a wild start Saturday, walking four of the first six batters he faced but escaped the inning having allowed only one earned run. He then settled in until the fifth inning, when he allowed a double to opposing pitch Zack Greinke who was driven in by the next batter before getting the early hook. This was one of Morton's worst starts of the season, which speaks to how well he has pitched through his first seven outings. He'll look to bounce back in his next opportunity, which should come against the Rangers.
Apr 30 2018Morton (4-0) held the Yankees to just one run on two hits and two walks with 10 strikeouts through 7.2 innings to pick up the win Monday night.Morton proved his last time out against the Angels (four innings pitched, four runs allowed on two home runs) was just a hiccup, as he recorded his fifth quality start in six outings against the Yankees. It wasn't until the Yankees pushed up Morton's pitch count over 100 and the Astros were forced to go to the bullpen that New York could scratch a run across thanks to a Brett Gardner single off Chris Devenski in the eighth inning. Still, Morton reached double-digit strikeouts this season and now has 45 in just 36.2 innings. Morton will look to keep his hot start going Saturday on the road against the Diamondbacks.
Apr 24 2018Morton allowed four runs on five hits and five walks while striking out two over four innings in Tuesday's loss to the Angels. He did not factor into the decision.Morton carried a 0.72 ERA into Tuesday's outing, so he certainly can be afforded a bit of a slip up. He struggled a bit with command and only induced four swings and misses, en route to season-worst outputs in runs, walks, strikeouts and innings pitched. Morton's looked so locked in though in every other start this year, so there's little reason to think Tuesday's showing was anything more than a blip on the radar against a tough opponent. He's slated to take on another potent offense his next time out, Monday against the Yankees.
Apr 19 2018Morton (3-0) allowed three hits while walking none and striking out eight across seven scoreless innings to earn the win Thursday against the Mariners.Morton continued his excellent start to the season, dominating the Mariners on Thursday by generating 13 swinging strikes and nine ground balls. Through four starts, Morton has three scoreless outings of at least six innings and struck out more than 10 batters per nine innings. His velocity remains in line with last season, leaving little reason to doubt that Morton will continue to produce quality results.
Apr 14 2018Morton allowed two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out 12 in Saturday's 6-5 extra-inning loss to Texas.Morton deserved better than a no-decision. He gave up his first earned runs of the season, but left with a three-run lead, headed to a predictable win over the downtrodden Rangers, but then the bullpen happened. Brad Peacock's slider fooled no one, as the Rangers bashed two eighth-inning home runs to tie the game and prevented Morton from opening the season 3-0. Morton carries a 1.00 ERA into his next start Thursday on the road in Seattle.
Apr 8 2018Morton (2-0) allowed one unearned run on four hits and three walks while striking out seven over six innings in Sunday's 4-1 in over San Diego.Morton has come out of the gate showing no signs of let up from his 14-win campaign in 2017. He hasn't allowed an earned run in two starts while striking out 13 and inducing 16 groundball outs over 12 innings. "Ground Chuck" lived up to his nickname in the fifth when, with the score tied and a man on third base, he induced a grounder from slugger Eric Hosmer to get out of the jam. His next start is Friday at home against the Rangers, who are 24th in OPS (.656) after Sunday's action.
Apr 2 2018Morton (1-0) picked up the win in Houston's 6-1 victory over Baltimore on Monday, striking out six, walking two and scattering just three hits over six shutout innings.Morton looked filthy in his first start of the season, generating 17 swings-and-misses and seeing his fastball top out at 98.6 MPH on his way to the victory. The 34-year-old right-hander is coming off a solid 2017 campaign that saw him log a 3.46 ERA, a 1.19 WHIP and strike out 163 batters in 146.2 innings. If he can match or improve upon those numbers this season, Morton figures to have a secure spot in the rotation on an absolutely loaded Astros pitching staff.
Mar 27 2018Morton allowed one hit and struck out eight over 5.1 scoreless innings in Tuesday's exhibition game against the Brewers.Morton's previous outing was one to forget, but he bounced back with panache Tuesday. After he allowed a first-inning single, a baserunner wiped out with a double-play, no Brewer reached base safely against Morton. Other than the aforementioned poor outing, the 34-year-old right-hander had a very encouraging spring, hinting that last season's breakthrough was no outlier.
Mar 23 2018Morton allowed nine runs on 11 hits and three walks while striking out one over 3.1 innings in Thursday's start against Miami.Morton ran his pitch count to 83, the one positive takeaway from an otherwise forgettable outing. It had been a relatively uneventful spring training for Morton until Thursday. It does nothing to change his status: he'll be Houston's fifth starter and will start the home opener, April 2, against Baltimore. Before then, however, he will pitch in an exhibition game against the Nationals at Minute Maid Park in Houston next Tuesday.
Mar 18 2018Morton will pitch the fifth game of the season, April 2, Houston's home opener against the Orioles, Glenn Sattell of MLB.com reports.Hinch could have made an argument for choosing the final three starters after Justin Verlander and Dallas Keuchel. Morton will be the team's No. 5 starter following Lance McCullers and Gerrit Cole. The manager wanted to reward last year's World Series hero with the start in the home opener when they raise the flag at Minute Maid Park. It was Morton that earned the Game 7 win with four innings of relief.
Mar 18 2018Morton worked on his changeup in Saturday's game against the Marlins, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. He allowed four runs (one earned) on three hits, three walks and two hit batsmen while striking out four over 4.2 innings.Morton's dedicating some of spring training to developing a changeup, which would be a fourth pitch to complement his fastball, cutter, curveball mix. The changeup isn't nearly as effective as his other offerings, but that pitch isn't what did him in Saturday. He had early problems commanding all of his pitches and didn't start using the changeup until the third and fourth innings. He got a better feel for his entire repertoire as the game went on and managed to throw 69 pitches, putting him on schedule to be where he needs to be for the regular season.
Mar 6 2018Morton allowed three hits and struck out six over three innings in Tuesday's game against Washington.Morton hasn't allowed a run or walked a batter in five spring innings and is exhibiting signs that last season's campaign was no fluke. The 34-year-old is enjoying a late-career renaissance and will have a spot in what might be the best rotation in the AL in front of what might be the best lineup.
Mar 2 2018Morton tossed two scoreless innings, allowing two hits and striking out one in Thursday's game against the Red Sox.Last year's hero in Game 7 of the World Series threw strikes on 17 of his 24 pitches and mainly stuck to fastballs. At the age of 33, Morton enjoyed the best season of his career in 2017 while reaching new heights with his fastball and posting a career-high 10.0 K/9.
Oct 25 2017Morton will toe the rubber against the Dodgers for Game 4 of the World Series on Saturday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Morton will follow Lance McCullers in the Astros' rotation after conjuring up a brilliant performance against the Yankees in Saturday's Game 7. During that outing, Morton threw a five-inning shutout, allowing just three baserunners while striking out five to help the club reach the World Series. The Dodgers haven't confirmed their starter for Game 4 as of yet, but Morton will likely face off against 26-year-old Alex Wood.
Oct 21 2017Morton will take the mound for Game 7 of the ALCS against the Yankees on Saturday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Morton was knocked around by the Yankees in Game 3 of the series, but manager A.J. Hinch believes it was a bout with bad luck and that the 33-year-old can pull through on regular rest. He will once again oppose CC Sabathia -- who bested him in Game 3 -- in the series-deciding Game 7 tilt.
Oct 13 2017Morton will take the hill for Game 3 of the ALCS in Yankee Stadium on Monday, Richard Justice of MLB.com reports.Morton will follow Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander, respectively, in the Astros' rotation for the series against New York. He will be coming off six days of rest after starting in Boston on Monday. During that game, Morton allowed two earned runs off seven hits and two walks over 4.1 innings.
Sep 30 2017Morton (14-7) allowed two runs on four hits while striking out four over 5.1 innings in Friday's 3-2 win over the Red Sox.Morton, who triggered a $625,000 bonus in his contract by making his 25th start of the season, was dominant early, much like he's been in many of his previous 24 starts. He retired the first 13 batters before his perfect game was broken up by a Mitch Moreland double in the fifth inning. When the right-hander ran into trouble, the Astros bullpen picked him up. Morton finished the regular season with a 3.62 ERA, a 1.19 WHIP and a 10.0 K/9, seemingly solidifying his spot in the rotation for the postseason.
Sep 23 2017Morton (13-7) allowed one run on four hits and one walk while striking out five across seven innings to earn the win Saturday against the Angels.Morton fired six shutout innings before allowing a solo homer in the seventh inning, but the offense had already provided him with a five-run lead, and he was easily able to cruise to his 13th victory of the season. He's been hot throughout the month of September, as he's allowed just six earned runs over four starts to lower his ERA from 3.88 to 3.63, and he's been an excellent source of fantasy production down the stretch. He'll make his next start Thursday against the Red Sox.
Sep 19 2017Morton's next start will come Saturday against the Angels, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton's next outing will come eight days after his last one; manager A.J. Hinch is starting to align his starters for the postseason, so he will move both Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander ahead of Morton in the rotation. Morton has faced the Angels twice this season and is 1-0 with a 2.70 ERA and 8:3 K:BB over 10 innings.
Sep 16 2017Morton (12-7) allowed one run on five hits and a walk while striking out seven in Friday's 5-2 win over Seattle.Morton, who had been 0-2 and allowed nine runs over 17.2 innings in three previous starts against Seattle this season, finally broke through in his fourth attempt. In all four starts, Morton squared off with Seattle ace James Paxton, who had limited one of the American League's most prolific offenses to one run over 20 innings (0.45 ERA) in his previous three starts. Morton will take the mound next Friday against the Angels.
Sep 9 2017Morton (11-7) took the loss in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the A's. He was charged with three runs (two earned) on six hits with three walks and eight strikeouts.Morton gave up three hits (two for extra bases), issued a walk and committed an error in the second inning, but he was quite good otherwise. The right-hander has posted a 28:6 K:BB over his last four starts (21 innings) and could make up to four more starts before the end of the regular season, including one potentially against the White Sox. A home matchup against Seattle is next on the docket although plans could change if Collin McHugh (finger) isn't cleared for Thursday's game against the Angels.
Sep 2 2017Morton (11-6) allowed two runs on six hits and a walk while striking out nine batters through five innings during Saturday's win over the Mets.After allowing seven runs through 13 innings over his past two starts, this was a solid rebound from Morton. He sports a 3.87 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 10.1 K.9 for the campaign and pitches for a contender, so the 33-year-old veteran projects to remain a fantasy staple in all settings. Morton lines up to face the Mariners at Safeco Field in his next start.
Aug 27 2017Morton was tagged for three runs on four hits with one walk and five strikeouts over five innings in Sunday's no-decision against the Angels.Even though he only issued one walk, command was a problem for Morton. It took the veteran righty 88 pitches to get through five innings and he plunked two hitters along the way. While his team ultimately came out on top, Morton will be disappointed with himself for not snagging personal win number 11 after being staked to a 4-0 lead through four innings. That elusive victory could well come in his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday against the Mets.
Aug 23 2017Morton (10-6) took the loss against the Nationals on Tuesday, allowing four runs on five hits and a walk over six innings while striking out six.Staked to an early 2-0 lead, Morton proceeded to give up two-spots in the third and fourth innings, and the Astros offense couldn't respond. The right-hander has been mostly impressive since the All-Star break, posting a 3.81 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 57:18 K:BB in eight starts (49.2 innings), and he'll look to get back in the win column Sunday on the road against the Angels.
Aug 16 2017Morton (10-5) emerged victorious Wednesday against the Diamondbacks after allowing one run on three hits with four walks and nine strikeouts over 6.1 innings.Morton rebounded after surrendering multiple earned runs in each of his three previous starts, easily navigating a tough Arizona lineup while tying a season-low in hits allowed. Getting nine runs of support from the league's top-ranked offense was also helpful, as that cushion prevented Arizona's four runs in the final two innings against the bullpen from having any impact on the outcome. Morton will look to build on this effort Tuesday against the Nationals.
Aug 12 2017Morton (9-5) allowed five runs (three earned) on seven hits and two walks while striking out six over 5.2 innings in Friday's 6-4 loss to Texas.Morton didn't have his best stuff and compounded that by committing an error that led to those two unearned runs and inflated his pitch count to 37 in a four-run third inning. Not every start's going to be a quality one, so you'll just have to accept this one and move on. Morton has been very steady for the Astros this season, out-pitching his preseason projections, particularly in the area of strikeouts. His next start will come Wednesday when the Astros kick off a homestand against the Diamondbacks.
Aug 5 2017Morton allowed three runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out seven batters through seven innings during Saturday's loss to Toronto. He didn't factor into the decision.Morton posted a 4-1 record with a 3.23 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 9.4 K/9 through five starts since returning from the disabled list July 7, and Saturday's outing continued his strong work on the mound. He's established himself as a strong fantasy asset in the majority of settings, and it also helps that Morton is pitching for a contender. He lines up to face the Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington in his next start.
Jul 31 2017Morton (9-4) allowed two runs on two hits and three walks with five strikeouts over six innings in a win Monday against the Rays.Morton has now won four of his last five starts and has quality starts in three of them. His one mistake Monday night was a two-run home run by Corey Dickerson. The long ball has been his main weakness this season; Morton owns a 3.77 ERA despite having surrendered 11 home runs now in 15 starts, good for a mediocre 1.1 HR/9. That homer problem, unfortunately, will probably keep him too consistent to get to the next level.
Jul 25 2017Morton (8-4) tossed seven scoreless innings Tuesday, allowing three hits and a walk while striking out nine in a 5-0 win over the Phillies.He threw 71 of 105 pitches for strikes in dominating Philadelphia and recording his fifth quality start of the year. Morton has now won three of four outings since coming off the DL, posting a 3.28 ERA and 27:8 K:BB in 24.2 innings over that stretch. The right-hander will next take the mound Tuesday at home against the Rays.
Jul 19 2017Morton (7-4) tossed 6.2 innings Wednesday, allowing four runs on six hits while striking out five in a losing effort against the Mariners.Morton rolled through the first three innings before allowing a single and a Ben Game home run to start the fourth inning. The right-hander filled the zone with 66 of his 102 offerings going for strikes, but it simply wasn't enough given that the Houston bats fell silent at the hands of Seattle's James Paxton. Morton will look to get back into the win column Tuesday against the Phillies.
Jul 15 2017Morton (7-3) allowed five runs (four earned) on three hits, five walks and a hit batsman while striking out 10 over five innings in Friday's 10-5 win over the Twins.Morton wasn't at his best Friday, requiring a season-high 108 pitches to record 15 outs, but Houston's offense, which currently ranks among the best in MLB history, gave him ample run support via an eight-run second inning. The Astros have supported Morton all season, giving him 6.33 runs per game over his 12 starts. Support like that will lead to a significant amount of wins for Morton, who has recorded double-digit wins (10) just once during his nine previous seasons.
Jul 13 2017Morton will start the Astros' first game after the All-Star break Friday against the against the Twins, Shane Jackson of MLB.com reports.In his final start of the first half, Morton allowed one run over six innings against Toronto in his first outing since returning from the disabled list. He made 11 starts in the first half of the season, striking out 68 batters across 63.2 innings, That's a rate of 9.6 strikeouts per nine innings, a significant increase over Morton's 6.3 K/9 mark in nearly 900 innings from 2008-16.
Jul 7 2017Morton (6-3) allowed one run on four hits and two walks while striking out three over six innings to earn the win Friday against the Blue Jays.Morton (lat) was making his first start since May 24, and was provided an eight-run lead after two innings, as he coasted to an easy win. On the season, he has a respectable 3.82 ERA, and pitching behind a potent Astros offense, he's a player who can be a very useful fantasy option. He'll make his next start at a time yet to be determined after the All-Star break.
Jul 7 2017Morton (lat) was reinstated from the 10-day disabled list Friday.As anticipated, Morton will return from injury to start Friday against the Blue Jays. He ramped up his pitch count during his rehab assignment to the point where he should be able to approach 100 pitches from here out. To make room for him on the active roster, Dayan Diaz was sent back to the minors.
Jul 4 2017Morton (lat) will start Friday's game in Toronto, Julia Morales of Root Sports Southwest reports.He threw 74 pitches in a rehab start for Double-A Corpus Christi on Sunday, and should be able to approach 100 pitches in his return to the big-league rotation. Morton had been striking hitters out at an impressive 25.8 percent clip and had a 4.06 ERA prior to suffering the injury. His spot in the rotation should be secure as long as he can stay healthy. Mike Fiers will be pushed back to Saturday as a result of Morton's impending activation from the 10-day DL.
Jul 2 2017Morton (lat) tossed 4.1 one-hit innings while striking out five and walking two Sunday in what could be his final rehab start for Double-A Corpus Christi before rejoining the big-league rotation.He threw 74 pitches (50 strikes), and is expected to rejoin the Astros' rotation on July 8 in Toronto. Prior to suffering the injury, Morton was putting together arguably his best fantasy campaign to date, as his 25.8 percent strikeout rate was well above his 16.6 percent career mark, and his 4.06 ERA was quite palatable in today's pitching landscape.
Jul 1 2017Morton (lat) is scheduled to make his second rehab start with Double-A Corpus Christi on Sunday, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports.The plan is for Morton to make his return to the Astros' rotation next Saturday against the Blue Jays, so Sunday's outing will be a telltale sign as to his readiness. The 33-year-old has looked solid in two starts with Triple-A Fresno, allowing just one run over six innings, but may still be shaking off the rust as he builds up his pitch count. Morton has been out with a lat strain since the end of May and figures to resume his starting role in the Houston rotation.
Jun 30 2017Morton (lat) is expected to make one more rehab start before coming off the disabled list, Julia Morales of Root Sports Southwest reports.While there was a possibility that Morton would make his next start for the Astros, it appears the team will send him for another tune-up game before activating him. The 33-year-old is scheduled to make a rehab start for Double-A Corpus Christi before returning to the big-league rotation next week against the Blue Jays.
Jun 28 2017Morton allowed two hits and one walk while striking out two over four innings in his second rehabilitation start at Triple-A Fresno on Tuesday.Morton got up to 47 pitches (29 strikes) in his second rehab start and will require at least one more rehab start before returning to the Astros' rotation. The Astros are targeting a return before the All-Star break. He's been surprisingly effective in 2017, reinventing himself as a high-strikeout pitcher. His 10.1 K/9 this season is a career high, besting his previous high of 7.2.
Jun 28 2017Morton (lat) could make his next start for the Astros as early as Sunday against the Yankees, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.The Astros are still weighing whether Morton will need to make another rehab start after he tossed four innings for Triple-A Fresno in his latest rehab appearance. If he isn't ready to return to the rotation for Sunday's series finale against the Yankees, he'd likely make his last rehab start for Double-A Corpus Christi while Mike Fiers toes the rubber for the big club. The Astros will likely wait until after his next bullpen session, which is scheduled for Thursday or Friday, before making a decision regarding his next move. Should Morton require another rehab start, he'd likely return to the Astros' rotation during the July 6-9 series against the Blue Jays.
Jun 24 2017Morton (latissimus) will make a second rehabilitation start Tuesday with Triple-A Fresno, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton will pitch three or four innings Tuesday after throwing 36 pitches over two innings during his first rehab start Thursday. The right-hander will need at least one more start beyond next Tuesday's before he's activated off the disabled list.
Jun 21 2017Morton (latissimus) will require multiple starts while on rehabilitation assignment, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton kicks off his rehab with Triple-A Fresno on Thursday when he'll throw two or three innings depending on his efficiency. From there, he'll build up innings and incorporate all of his pitches over multiple outings and is expected to return to the rotation before the All-Star break.
Jun 20 2017Morton (latissimus) threw a bullpen session Monday without any setbacks and is in line to begin a rehabilitation assignment for Triple-A Fresno on Thursday, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton is scheduled to pitch two or three innings in his first rehab start for the Grizzlies. The 33-year-old right-hander has posted a 4.06 ERA while striking out a career-high 10.1 batters per nine innings over 10 starts.
Jun 19 2017Morton (latissimus) will throw a bullpen session Monday in Oakland, Mark Eisenhauer of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton, who was placed on the disabled list May 28 with a lat strain, told reporters Saturday that he's set to begin a rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Fresno on Thursday.
Jun 17 2017Morton (latissimus) is tentatively scheduled to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Fresno on Thursday, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.This is good news for the Astros -- who are also without Dallas Keuchel (neck), Lance McCullers (back), and Colin McHugh (elbow) -- as it appears Morton is inching closer to a return to the big club. He was able to resume mound work earlier in the week, and will work towards a more extensive bullpen before hopefully setting out on a rehab assignment next week. Seeing as Morton has been sidelined all month, he will likely need a couple rehab starts before he rejoins the Astros.
Jun 14 2017Morton (latissimus) threw 10-15 pitches off a mound Wednesday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.This is a big step in Morton's recovery process, as it's the first time he's been able to work off a mound since landing on the disabled list May 28 with a lat strain. He'll work towards throwing a more extensive bullpen before he likely heads out on a minor-league rehab assignment.
Jun 13 2017Morton (latissimus) has been playing catch since last Friday and is close to testing himself on a mound, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.The Astros could use a little good news as it relates to their rotation. Morton, who is in the third week of rehabilitation, is one of four starters currently on the disabled list.
Jun 11 2017Morton played catch Friday afternoon for the first time since being placed on the disabled list with a right latissimus strain, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton hadn't picked up a ball in 13 days before making about 25 throws from roughly 75 feet. The plan was to have the right-hander throw again over the weekend and work toward pitching off a mound. Given the length of time Morton's been off, a minor-league rehabilitation assignment is a near certainty.
Jun 6 2017Morton (lat) is increasing the intensity of his weight room workouts but has yet to resume throwing, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton was placed on the 10-day disabled list with a lat strain on May 28 and was shut down from all throwing activities for at that time. Based on the fact that he's not yet able to throw, it seems as though the veteran hurler is still a ways away from rejoining the Astros' rotation.
May 28 2017Morton was placed on the 10-day disabled list Sunday with a strained lat muscle, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.The news seemingly comes out of nowhere, as Morton reported no issues after coming out of his most recent start Wednesday against the Tigers, when he gave up two runs over seven innings. The Tigers haven't issued a timetable for his return yet, but that could be solidified once Morton is reevaluated in subsequent days. Mike Fiers, who had recently been moved to the bullpen in favor of Brad Peacock, will likely reclaim a spot in the rotation with Morton's injury creating a vacancy.
May 28 2017The Astros won't allow Morton (lat) to throw for at least one week, Hunter Atkins of the Houston Chronicle reports.This essentially ensures that Morton, who was moved to the 10-day disabled list Sunday with a right lat strain, won't be activated from the disabled list when first eligible June 4. He first experienced the issue while playing catch Saturday and will have his activity limited over the next seven days before being reevaluted by the Astros. With Morton hitting the DL, Mike Fiers will reclaim a spot in the rotation after Brad Peacock had previously displaced him.
May 25 2017Morton allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out six over seven innings in Wednesday's 6-3 loss to the Tigers.Morton's had a recurring problem this season when reaching the fifth and sixth, but there wasn't an issue Wednesday. He even made it through the seventh unscathed -- just the second time in 10 starts he's pitched that deep. Prior to Wednesday, opponents had posted a 1.143 OPS against Morton the third time through the order. Unfortunately, the Astros' bats couldn't take advantage of Morton's effectiveness, going 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position. The right-hander, who lowered his ERA to 4.06, makes his next start Monday on the road against the Twins.
May 20 2017Morton (5-3) allowed four runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out five over 5.1 innings in Friday's 5-3 loss to Cleveland.Three of those hits were homers, but that hasn't been much of an issue for Morton this season as he's only given up multiple jacks twice in nine starts. The 33-year-old's 4.26 ERA and 1.42 WHIP aren't particularly appealing in shallower fantasy leagues, but his 10.5 K/9 will play in just about any format. He'll next take the mound Wednesday at home against the Tigers.
May 14 2017Morton (5-2) allowed four runs on four hits and four walks across 5.2 innings in Sunday's 10-7 win over the Yankees. He struck out 10.Morton cruised through the early portion of the game but ran into trouble in the fifth when Matt Holiday cracked a three-run home run to right following an RBI single from Brett Gardner. He was staked to a massive lead at the time, so he carried on into the sixth before he was pulled after 102 pitches. Morton has now walked four in each of his last two starts, but he continues to strike out batters at a high rate and now carries an excellent, almost league-leading 10.7 K/9 to go along with his respectable 3.97 ERA. He will look to continue his strong start to the season Saturday against the Indians.
May 9 2017Morton (4-2) gave up three runs (one earned) on five hits and four walks while striking out five over 5.2 innings in Tuesday's win over Atlanta.All of those runs came in his final inning, when Morton's lack of control and a Carlos Correa error combined to let the Braves score all their runs. Still, this was hardly an efficient outing for the righty, who threw just 48 of his 84 pitches for strikes. That said, he's usually on point with his control, so this instance should be considered a hiccup for Morton, who's worked his way into the fantasy picture by racking up plenty of strikeouts alongside a decent 3.63 ERA in the early going.
May 3 2017Morton (3-2) whiffed eight Rangers over six strong innings Wednesday, giving up just one run on five hits and two walks in a 10-1 victory.Morton's evolution into a hard-throwing, strikeout-generating starter after age 30 has certainly been an unusual one, but strange as it is, it's hard to argue with a 39:10 K:BB over 34 innings. While his ERA is still high at 3.97, the deeper stats paint a prettier picture; Morton has a sharp 3.10 FIP and 3.19 xFIP, as he's been the recipient of some poor BABIP luck.
Apr 29 2017Morton (2-2) allowed four runs on five hits without a walk while striking out 12 in Friday's 9-4 win over Oakland.Morton overcame trouble in the first inning, when he allowed a three-run home run to Khris Davis, with the help of Houston's resilient bats. The right-hander eventually settled down to log a season-high in innings and a career high in strikeouts. Morton's next scheduled start is Wednesday at home against the Rangers.
Apr 22 2017Morton (1-2) allowed five runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out six batters over five innings during Saturday's loss to Tampa Bay.This was an underwhelming outing, and Morton's ERA climbed to 4.29 in the loss. His ability to induce groundballs (49.3 percent for the year) and respectable 8.14 K/9 make him a low-end starter for mixed leagues, but avoiding him against tough opponents isn't out of the question, either. He lines up to face Oakland next, so that will be a telling start, as the Athletics don't project as a daunting matchup.
Apr 17 2017Morton allowed five hits while walking two and striking out three over five scoreless innings for his first win of the year in Monday's 3-0 win over the Angels.Morton, a popular sleeper pick this spring, hasn't allowed more than three runs in his first three starts of the year and is now sporting a 2.81 ERA and 7.3 K/9 in 16 innings. He's gaining even more traction now in mixed leagues after his best start of the season to date. An increase in velocity following a serious hamstring injury last year has helped his strikeout numbers, and his excellent groundball rate should keep him relevant all year. Morton finishes off his two-start week against the Rays this Saturday.
Apr 16 2017Manager A.J. Hinch said that Morton would start Monday against the Angels after he had his scheduled start Sunday against the Athletics postponed by rain, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Hinch wouldn't confirm that all five of the Astros' starters would move back a day due to the rainout, but Morton will at least line up for a two-start week following Sunday's postponement. After taking the hill Monday, he's on track to pitch a second time Saturday against the Rays.
Apr 16 2017Morton's scheduled start for Sunday's game against the Athletics was postponed due to rain.A make-up date for the game has yet to be announced. The Astros are back on the schedule Monday against the Angels, and though manager A.J. Hinch hasn't revealed his rotation plans for the series, it's possible that Morton will just be pushed back a day, putting him in line for a two-start week.
Apr 10 2017Morton allowed three runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out six over five innings in Monday's 6-0 loss to the Mariners.Morton was an escape artist early on, emerging unscathed through four innings, three in which the Mariners placed runners in scoring position. But the right-hander flirted with danger one too may times in the fifth inning when Seattle plated three runs and pushed Morton's pitch count up to 89. That was it for him. He certainly could have pitched better, but he and the rest of the starters are getting little support from the bats -- Houston is hitting .232. If the offense gets going as many expected, Morton might be able to survive a game like Monday's. He's next scheduled to start Sunday, April 16, at Oakland.
Apr 5 2017Morton held the Mariners to two runs on five hits and a pair of walks over six innings in a no-decision Wednesday. He struck out four.Morton generated some preseason buzz in fantasy circles thanks to his increased velocity in a tiny sample last year, and he hit 96 mph in this one. It's a bit hard to believe in him as a 33-year-old sleeper, but Morton has a strong curveball to go with that heater, so he could be a credible starter in some formats. Just don't get too excited too soon, as he's been alternately injured and ineffective for the last two seasons. There's some upside here, but plenty of downside too.
Mar 29 2017Morton threw about 95 pitches in a minor-league game Wednesday, his final outing before he starts next Wednesday against the Mariners, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Morton allowed just two earned runs and struck out 17 batters over 17.1 spring innings. The 33-year-old right-hander is not known for his power arm, but Morton experienced increased velocity this spring, continuing a trend he showed last year in Philadelphia before suffering a season-ending injury in April.
Mar 28 2017Morton will start the Astros' third game of the season against the Mariners, the Houston Chronicle's Jake Kaplan reports.He will take the ball on Apr. 5, after Lance McCullers and before Joe Musgrove in the competitive Astros rotation. Morton has really impressed this spring, sporting a 1.04 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 17 strikeouts in 17.1 innings.
Mar 25 2017Morton will pitch either the second game of the regular season or the third, Brian McTaggart of the Astros' official site reports.Manager A.J. Hinch sketched out the first few games of the season, naming Dallas Keuchel the Opening Day starter followed by Morton and Lance McCullers in an order to be determined. Morton made his penultimate spring start Friday, allowing three hits and two walks while striking out four over 4.1 innings. He's allowed two earned runs, 10 hits and six walks while striking out 17 over 17.1 innings this spring.
Mar 19 2017Morton's fastball topped out at 97 mph during Saturday's game against the Nationals, Philip Fishman of the Houston Chronicle reports. The right-hander got up to 63 pitches (42 strikes) in his fourth spring start, allowing two unearned runs on three hits and one walk while striking out seven over four innings.Morton is unfazed by the velocity increase of his fastball, which in previous years sat in the 92 mph range. "It's nice to throw hard, but at the end of the day, it's all about getting outs," he said. And getting outs is what's he's been doing this spring. He's allowed seven hits and four walks over 13 innings and sports a 1.38 ERA with 13 strikeouts. Morton has solidified his hold on the No. 4 spot in the rotation. And if he continues to maintain increased velocity with movement, we could see an uptick in Ks for a pitcher that's averaged 6.3 K/9 for his career.
Mar 8 2017Morton tossed three scoreless innings Wednesday, striking out four and walking one without allowing a hit to the Mets, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Morton is off the impressive start this spring, tossing five scoreless innings through two starts. His fastball once again flashed elevated velocity, sitting between 94 and 97 mph. He's averaged between 91 and 93 mph that last few years, but experienced an uptick in 2016 before his season ended early due to a hamstring injury. He acknowledged the weapon that added velocity can have, but Morton was more pleased with the location of his curveball and movement of his sinker.
Mar 4 2017Morton allowed one hit and one walk while striking out one over two scoreless innings in Friday's game against the Mets.A nice start to training camp for Morton, who missed most of last season after tearing a hamstring in April. The 33-year-old right-hander's fastball was clocked between 94 and 96 mph, continuing a trend of increased velocity we noticed last season before his injury. He's part of a handful of pitchers looking to claim one of the final two spots in the rotation, but Morton's spot should be safe if he remains healthy.
Feb 28 2017Morton (hamstring) will make his spring debut Friday against the Mets, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.The right-hander missed all of 2016 due to a torn hamstring that required surgery, but he seems to be back to form in time to make a good number of spring starts. As long as he experiences no setbacks, Morton is expected to slot in as the Astros' fourth starter but could see competition from Joe Musgrove and Mike Fiers for spots as well.
Jan 24 2017Morton (hamstring) is "softly" in the Astros' starting rotation for 2017, according to manager A.J. Hinch, MLB.com's Brian McTaggart reports.Morton signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Astros in November after a torn hamstring limited his 2016 season to four starts. The 33-year-old has been injury-prone in recent years, but it looks like he will get the chance to start once again. While Morton appears poised to break camp as the team's fifth starter, 24-year-old Joe Musgrove has more potential and may be a more intriguing option, as he finished 2016 with a 4.06 ERA over 11 games (10 starts) in Houston. Musgrove may begin the season in Triple-A, but he figures to make his way back to the majors at some point in 2017.
Nov 16 2016Morton (hamstring) signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Astros on Wednesday, the Houston Chronicle reports.A torn hamstring limited Morton to just four starts in 2016, but his 6-to-8 month recovery timetable puts him on track to be ready by spring training, and his contract makes him a favorite to open the season with one of the back-end spots in the Astros' rotation. Health will be a key factor in him both winning and hanging onto a job, as he has averaged just 16 starts per season since making a career-high 29 starts in 2011.
Nov 16 2016Morton signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Astros on Wednesday, the Houston Chronicle reports.A torn hamstring limited Morton to just four starts in 2016, but his 6-to-8 month recovery timetable puts him on track to be ready by spring training, and his contract makes him a favorite to open the season with one of the back-end spots in the Astros' rotation. Health will be a key factor in him both winning and hanging onto a job, as he has averaged just 16 starts per season since making a career-high 29 starts in 2011.
Nov 3 2016The Phillies have declined the 2017 team option on Morton's contract, MLB.com's Todd Zolecki reports.Morton had more success than not over the last few seasons, but he was limited to just four starts in 2016 after undergoing surgery to repair a torn left hamstring, so the Phillies decided not to pay him the $9.5 million he was due for 2017 and let him test free agency. It's not clear where Morton stands health-wise, but he figures to garner attention this offseason from teams looking for back-of-the-rotation options.
Jun 1 2016The Phillies transferred Morton (hamstring) to the 60-day disabled list on Wednesday, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.Morton is out for the season after having surgery to repair a tear in his left hamstring.
Apr 27 2016The results of Morton's MRI on his hamstring were worse than the Phillies were expecting, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.The team did not provide any specific details about the severity of the injury or how long Morton will be sidelined. Manager Pete Mackanin said, "We're going to see what happens in the next two or three days and see what the next step is." Adam Morgan will be recalled from Triple-A to take Morton's spot in the rotation.
Apr 27 2016Morton will undergo season-ending surgery on his injured hamstring, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.The veteran right-hander was placed on the disabled list Sunday with what was ruled as a left hamstring strain, but an MRI performed a day later revealed a tear in the hamstring, according to Stephen Gross of The Morning Call. Morton is scheduled to undergo the season-ending surgery Monday, meaning that two of the Phillies' initial pieces of the rotation are gone for the year. Adam Morgan is expected to take Morton's spot in the rotation beginning Friday.
Apr 24 2016Morton has been placed on the 15-day DL with a left hamstring strain, Stephen Gross of The Morning Call reports.Morton was removed from his start Saturday in Milwaukee, and had been scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday. Even without the results in hand, it appears the ailment is severe enough to warrant a DL stint. To replace him on the roster, the Phillies recalled Luis Garcia from Triple-A Lehigh Valley, who will provide bullpen help until the need to replace Morton's rotation spot arises.
Apr 24 2016Morton (hamstring) will have an MRI on Monday, Jim Salisbury of CSN Philadelphia reports.Morton said he felt a pop in his hamstring while running to first base on a bunt in the top of the second inning Saturday. He will likely miss at least his next start. Adam Morgan could be recalled from Triple-A to take Morton's spot in the rotation.
Apr 23 2016Morton left Saturday's start at Milwaukee due to a left knee injury, Jim Salisbury of CSN Philadelphia reports.Morton took a tumble while attempting to run out a bunt in the top of the second inning. On replays, he appeared to hyperextend his knee, but the Phillies will surely provide a more apt diagnosis in the near future. While Brett Oberholtzer took over for the Phillies on the mound, Morton's next scheduled start, Friday against the Indians, is in question.
Apr 23 2016Morton, who was removed from his start Saturday at Milwaukee, has been diagnosed with a strained left hamstring, Jim Salisbury of CSN Philadelphia reports.After a bunt attempt in the top of the second inning, Morton fell en route to first base and required assistance to reach the clubhouse. With a diagnosis known, his next start on the schedule, Friday versus the Indians, is up in the air.
Apr 12 2016Morton (1-1) tossed 6.2 shutout innings to earn the win against the Padres as he allowed three hits and four walks and struck out seven.Morton was a bit wild, but his two-seam fastball was hugely effective and kept Padres hitters off balance all game long. He induced 10 swinging strikes with 66 of those two-seamers. Combine its nasty movement with a 93.9 MPH average velocity -- up to 97 at its peak -- and Morton has a significant plus pitch in his arsenal. He bounced back well from a brutal debut start against Cincinnati and lowered his ERA to 5.23 as a result.
Mar 24 2016Morton will start the third game of the regular season for the Phillies, CSN Philadelphia reports.Morton will take on the Reds in Cincinnati in his first start of 2016. The Phillies hope Morton can stay healthy and eat innings for the club this season while they wait for their young pitching prospects to ascend from the minors. He was 9-9 with a 4.81 ERA last season for the Pirates.
Mar 18 2016Morton (illness) allowed five runs on four hits Friday against the Pirates. He struck out three and walked three.Not a great start from Morton, who was returning to action after missing time with the flu. He is locked into a rotation spot regardless of his performance this spring.
Mar 10 2016Morton was scratched from his start Friday against the Braves with an illness, Jim Salisbury of CSN Philadelphia reports.The initial diagnosis is that Morton has something similar to the flu, so he'll take the day off and rest so that he can fully heal from the illness. David Buchanan will start in his place.
Dec 12 2015Morton was acquired by the Phillies via trade for a minor league pitcher.Morton is a fairly sensible acquisition for the rebuilding Phillies. Despite a very underwhelming 2015 with a 4.81 ERA, he should still be able to deliver innings and that's what Philadelphia will need in 2016. He does however face a downgrade in park as far as pitchers go, moving to the hitter-friendly Citizens Bank Park. He also loses the Pirates' strong outfield defense, but his ability to induce groundballs should mitigate that. The 32-year-old figures to slot in somewhere between the No. 3 and 5 spots of a shallow rotation.
Sep 30 2015Morton (9-9) lasted only two-plus innings in the nightcap of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Cardinals, giving up five runs on four hits, a walk and two hit batsmen.After the Pirates blew out the Cardinals 8-2 in the afternoon game, Morton allowed St. Louis to clinch in Game 2. The most amazing thing about this outing is that Morton managed to hit the same batter -- Jon Jay -- twice in such a short outing. This was his last start of the 2015 regular season, a distinctly unimpressive campaign that he's closed out by giving up 17 runs (16 earned) in his final 10.1 innings.
Sep 29 2015Morton will not make his scheduled start Tuesday against the Cardinals, as the game has been postponed due to rain, Jenifer Langosch of MLB.com reports.Pittsburgh and St. Louis will play two Wednesday to make up for the rainout, and while nothing's been officially announced, it seems likely both Morton and Michael Wacha will simply move back a day. Morton held the Cardinals to one earned run over six innings in his lone start against them this season back on Sept. 5.
Sep 29 2015Morton will start Game 2 of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Cardinals, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.As expected, Morton will just move back to Wednesday after Tuesday's game was postponed due to rain. However, Morton is now slated to oppose Tyler Lyons rather than Michael Wacha, with the Pirates opting to flip Morton and Gerrit Cole.
Sep 23 2015Morton was bailed out of a poor start Wednesday, receiving a no-decision after giving up six earned runs on 10 hits and a walk while striking out five in a 13-7 win over the Rockies.Staked to a 7-1 lead by the fourth inning, Morton walked in a run only to give up homers to Corey Dickerson and Tom Murphy the following frame. Coors Field outings should always be taken with a grain of salt, but Morton has now given up at least five earned runs in each of his last two starts; terrible timing, considering the Pirates have yet to announce a rotation for the playoffs.
Sep 17 2015Morton (9-8) surrendered nine hits, six runs (five earned) and two walks in five-plus innings a 9-6 loss to the Cubs on Thursday. He struck out five.Morton broke his string of three consecutive quality starts and also surrendered a homer for the second consecutive appearance, after a stretch where he'd stayed away from the long ball in seven of eight trips to the mound. The veteran right-hander wasn't missing many bats Thursday overall, as evidenced by the paltry four swings-and-misses he induced over 76 pitches. Morton has now dropped four out of his last five decisions despite not necessarily pitching poorly in each instance, and it remains to be seen how he will fit into any Pirates' postseason plans.
Sep 11 2015Morton allowed two runs on three hits, walking two and striking out two over six innings of a 6-3 win against Milwaukee on Friday night.Morton (9-7, 4.02 ERA) can be a bit erratic, but turned in a very strong performance here. After serving up a two-run home run to Adam Lind in the first inning, he held the Brewers in check until his mates could put some runs on the board and line him up for a win. He's now allowed more than three runs in just one of his last six outings and has completed at least six innings in five of them as well.
Sep 5 2015Morton allowed two runs (one earned) in six innings Saturday, giving up four hits and three walks while striking out three batters.Morton pitched well enough to win -- he fashioned a 10:4 GB:FB ratio -- but mound opponent Jaime Garcia was better. He's come away with just two wins in his last 12 starts after collecting victories in six of his first seven outings.
Aug 31 2015Morton (8-6) took the loss Sunday against the Rockies after giving up five runs (three earned) over six innings. He scattered six hits and two walks and struck out six.Morton had a no-hitter going through three innings, but a three-run Rockies fourth was enough to put the sinkerballer on the hook for the loss. Though Morton has now given up 10 runs (seven earned) while losing in back-to-back starts, his high groundball ratio and improving strikeout rate offers plenty of hope for his surface numbers to rebound.
Aug 25 2015Morton gave up five runs (four earned) on eight hits and zero walks while striking out three in 5.1 innings Tuesday in Miami.This matchup undoubtedly looked like a good spot for Morton, but he turned in his second shortest outing since June 21. It seems likely that Tyler Glasnow will join the Pirates' rotation in September, but Morton's spot should be safe. His next start will come Sunday at home against the Rockies.
Aug 20 2015Morton (8-4) shut the Giants out over 6.2 innings Thursday, striking out eight while giving up four hits and two walks in a 4-0 win.Morton's ramped up the strikeouts over his last four outings, whiffing a surprising 30 over 25 innings, but we're still waiting for him to show us some consistency -- he hasn't had a streak of quality starts longer than two games all year long. He'll have a chance to make it three straight against the Marlins next week.
Aug 15 2015Morton pitched well Saturday in a no-decision, striking out nine batters over 6.1 innings while allowing three runs (two earned) on just four hits and a walk.Morton was almost perfect through six innings, but proceeded to allow two homers in the seventh to even the game at 3-3. The performance is still very good though and fantasy owners should be encouraged by the unusually high strikeout total. Morton will look to continue that good form against San Francisco on Thursday.
Aug 9 2015Morton was touched for five runs on 10 hits over five innings Sunday in a no-decision against the Dodgers.This one came after Morton spun seven shutout innings against the Reds in his previous outing. Expect him to remain up and down the rest of the way.
Aug 2 2015Morton was brilliant Sunday against the Reds, throwing seven shutout innings. He allowed five hits and no walks, striking out seven.This outing was a little bit of a surprise, given his recent form and his history against the Reds (in 157 ABs, current Reds were hitting .312/.374/.466 against him coming into the game). Then again, the Reds did him a favor by giving Joey Votto the day off.
Jul 28 2015Morton allowed three runs on six hits and four walks over 5.2 innings in a no decision Tuesday against Minnesota. He struck out five.Morton has now allowed four earned runs in three straight starts and has a 1.438 WHIP in that span. He ends July with a brutal 19:15 K:BB -- Morton walked six more batters in July than he did in May and June combined. His ERA is up to 4.61.
Jul 28 2015Morton, who will start Tuesday in Minnesota, has allowed 21 earned runs in his last 18.1 innings on the road.The righty will be looking for his first win away from PNC Park since May 30, when he beat the Padres in San Diego. Morton has never faced the Twins before, but his recent track record suggests fantasy owners might want to steer clear of him Tuesday.
Jul 23 2015Morton (6-4) allowed five runs on seven hits -- two of them home runs -- walked one, hit two batters and struck out four in 6.2 innings Wednesday against the Royals.On June 16, Morton was 5-0 with a 1.62 ERA. Six starts later, he's 6-4 with a 4.59 ERA. The 31-year-old has lost four times in his past six starts, and it looks like he's in a slump. He'll look to bounce back in his next scheduled start Tuesday at Minnesota.
Jul 17 2015Morton gave up four earned runs in six-plus innings Friday, allowing five hits and three walks while striking out two.He failed to retired any of the three batters he faced before exiting in the seventh and two of those runners scored. Morton, who threw just 54 of 90 pitches for strikes against the Brewers, has now given up 17 earned runs in 18.2 road innings. He beat Milwaukee on June 10 with 7.1 shutout innings at home, but fantasy owners should exercise caution starting the righty away from PNC Park.
Jul 8 2015Morton gave up two earned runs in six innings Wednesday, allowing five hits and four walks while striking out five.He got off to a rough start and wasn't very efficient, as evidenced by his 104 pitches (65 for strikes) in just six frames, but he gave his team a chance to win. Following a disastrous nine-run outing in Washington, Morton has strung together three straight six-inning outings during which he's given up nine runs in 18 IP -- more in line with his career norms. He's not expected to start again until after the All-Star Game.
Jul 3 2015Morton allowed three runs on four hits, walking three and striking out three over six innings of a 5-2 loss to the Indians on Friday night.Morton (6-2, 4.30 ERA) ran off five consecutive wins after rejoining the Pirates' rotation, but was hammered for nine runs in two-thirds of an inning two starts back, and struggled again, albeit not nearly so badly, in his last outing. He has recently had problems commanding the strike zone (he needed 104 pitches - just 67 for strikes to get six innings in this one), but he is showing signs of putting the lacklustter outings behind him.
Jun 27 2015Morton allowed four runs on 10 hits in six innings Saturday. He struck out four without issuing a free pass, though he hit a pair of Braves batters.Considering he surrendered nine runs in two-thirds of an inning in his last start, Morton rebounded quite nicely. He was staked to a 5-0 lead in the first inning and pitched well until running into trouble to open the seventh. He threw 71 of 101 pitches for strikes and improved his record to 6-1.
Jun 21 2015Morton was hit hard Sunday against the Nationals, failing to make it out of the first inning and allowing nine runs on eight hits and a walk while recording just two outs.After posting a 1.62 ERA and picking up the win in each of his first five starts this season Morton ran out of magic Sunday. The rough outing saw his ERA rise over two full runs to 3.97 for the season. He'll try to bounce back next week against Atlanta.
Jun 16 2015Morton won his fifth start in a row Tuesday against the White Sox, tossing seven shutout innings while allowing four hits and one walk while striking out three.Morton has now gone seven-plus innings while allowing two runs or fewer in all three of his home starts this year. Morton will not be a major contributor in strikeouts, but he is excellent at generating ground balls and he should continue to have immense success with the Pirates' shift-heavy defense behind him, especially at home.
Jun 11 2015Morton improved to 4-0 with 7.1 shutout innings Wednesday against the visiting Brewers. He struck out six, allowing three hits and three walks.Well, that's four starts and four wins for Morton since his return from a season-opening hip injury. This was by far the best of them, as he'd only struck out a total of six batters over the first three. That substandard strikeout rate will come back to bite Morton, and with three walks in consecutive outings now, it's hard to say that he's shown a control improvement. This is a nice run, but Morton's peripherals and career tendencies point to him likely settling in as an approximately league-average starting option. However, he gets a nice matchup against the struggling White Sox offense Tuesday.
Jun 6 2015Morton gave up four runs -- three earned -- on seven hits over five innings against the Braves on Friday to earn his fifth win of the season.Overall, it was a lackluster performance for Morton, who recorded just one strikeout against a Braves lineup that has becomes one of the more difficult groups to whiff this year. Morton has six strikeouts in 19 innings this season, but he could be a viable contributor in both ratio categories (2.84 ERA, 1.16 WHIP), at least in streaming situations. He'll get the Brewers at home Wednesday in his next start.
May 31 2015Morton (2-0) delivered seven strong innings Saturday in San Diego, giving up just three hits and two runs (one earned) in the win. He walked one and struck out two.Despite striking out just five batters in his first 14 innings this year, Morton has delivered a pair of highly effective outings. However, all those balls in play will certainly come back to bite him in due time if Morton can't improve his strikeout rate to something resembling last year's career-high 7.21 K/9. He draws the Braves -- who drafted him in the third round way back in 2002 -- on Friday.
May 25 2015Morton (hip) was activated from the 15-day DL and will start Monday against the Marlins.Morton struggled throughout spring training after undergoing hip surgery late last season, but he convinced the Pirates he's good to go by tossing 6.1 innings of two-run ball with nine strikeouts in a start for Triple-A Indianapolis last week. He did walk four in that outing, but Morton had a good deal of success against Miami last season (two runs in 14 innings) and the Marlins have struggled to score runs this month (13th in NL).
May 25 2015Morton made his 2015 debut a successful one, allowing two runs on eight hits, he did not walk a batter, and struck out three over seven innings of a 4-2 win against Miami on Monday night.Morton allowed a run-scoring single, and a solo home run to the Marlins' primary threat, Giancarlo Stanton, but he induced 16 ground ball outs and came away with an impressive win. Perhaps most encouraging given his struggles this spring following hip surgery during the off season, he needed just 87 pitches (63 for strikes) and did not issue a free pass. Over the past couple of seasons Morton showed that he is capable of helping a fantasy team when healthy, and might be a very appealing flyer for teams seeking rotation options.
May 25 2015Morton (hip), who will make his season debut Monday, allowed two runs in 14 innings against the Marlins in 2014.The righty appeared to be on the verge of Steve Blass Disease at the end of spring training. Pittsburgh held him back, working with his mechanics at Pirate City before setting him up with three rehab starts in Altoona and Indianapolis -- where he compiled a 1.33 ERA and 22:6 K:BB ratio in 20.1 innings. Morton will face a Marlins squad that has scored seven runs one time in 23 May contests.
May 22 2015Morton (hip) will start Monday against the Marlins, Tom Singer of MLB.com reports.Morton walked four in his final rehab start for Triple-A Indianapolis, but also fanned nine while giving up just two runs and two hits over 6.1 innings. He will come off the DL to replace Vance Worley in the rotation starting Monday, with his second start of the week then slated for Saturday in San Diego.
May 17 2015Morton (hip) will replace Vance Worley in the rotation when he comes off the disabled list, Travis Sawchik of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton is scheduled to make one more rehab start Tuesday, and if all goes well, he should return to the Pittsburgh rotation on regular rest. The right-hander has allowed just one earned run over 14 innings in his first two rehab starts, but did give up a concerning 11 hits his last time out. The 31-year-old seems to be progressing well in his recovery from offseason hip surgery, and could be worth a look in deeper and NL-only formats upon his return.
May 10 2015Morton (hip) will toss a bullpen session Monday and will pitch in a game with Triple-A Indianapolis on Thursday, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton continues to work his way back from a hip issue that has kept him out the first month of the season. All seems to be going well, and he could return to the starting rotation in relatively short order assuming he doesn't suffer a setback.
May 3 2015Morton (hip) is on track to begin a rehab assignment later in the week, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton tossed a six-inning, 93-pitch simulated game at extended spring training Saturday, and appeared to come out of the outing without any concerns. He'll toss another bullpen session in front of the Pirates' brass Tuesday as a final tune-up before getting the go-ahead to begin the assignment. It's not clear which affiliate Morton would join.
May 1 2015Morton (hip) will pitch another extended spring game instead of making a rehab start with High-A Bradenton, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Bill Brink reports.It is not clear if this move was done for any reason other than convenience, and with no news of a setback, we still expect Morton to go on a rehab outing sometime soon. He could rejoin the Pirates' rotation sometime in late May.
Apr 21 2015Morton (hip) will make another start in extended spring training before going out on a rehab assignment, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton threw 55 pitches in an extended spring game last week, and although manager Clint Hurdle described that as a "step forward," it appears he'll need another one of approximately four innings and 65 pitches. At this point, it sounds likely that Morton will need several rehab starts, pushing his projected return to the middle of May.
Apr 15 2015Morton (hip) will throw three-to-four innings Saturday in an extended spring game in Tampa Bay, the Pittsburgh Tribune's Rob Biertempfel reports.It sounds like he is nearing a rehab assignment, and while he may need a couple outings in the minor leagues, Morton could rejoin the Pirates' rotation in late-April/early-May if everything goes well.
Apr 4 2015The Pirates placed Morton on the 15-day DL after an ineffective outing Saturday which featured a drop in his fastball velocity. Morton gave up five earned runs with five walks in 1.2 innings. His spring ERA rose to 8.47.Morton will likely work himself back into condition during extended spring training. The righthander wasn't initially expected back until the third week of April after undergoing hip surgery, making Saturday's announcement not that big of a surprise. He struggled during spring training with an 8.47 ERA and 6:10 K:BB ratio in 17 IP.
Apr 4 2015Morton (hip) allowed six runs on four hits and five walks in 1.2 innings Saturday. He also hit two batters and struck out three others on 70 pitches.Morton entered Saturday with bad spring numbers and pitched even worse. His fastball velocity sat 87 mph, down significantly from his customary 91-2 mph average. Fantasy owners will want to tread lightly with Morton. With a new delivery, an ongoing recovery from hip surgery and a history of inconsistency, Morton might not hold much fantasy value in the beginning of 2015.
Mar 5 2015Morton made his first appearance since undergoing offseason hip surgery last September, and remains on track to be ready for Opening Day, Bob Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton seems to be doing fine, and pitched two innings Thursday, but struggled somewhat (allowing two hits and two walks). He still seems to be a candidate to be ready for Opening Day, but it should become clearer as it draws nearer.
Feb 24 2015Morton (hip) threw live batting practice Tuesday and believes he'll be ready to join the rotation at the start of the regular season, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.Morton is rehabbing aggressively but the team can get by without a fifth starter for the first couple weeks of the season. Regardless of when righty is finally activated, his progression from surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip is no doubt a positive for Morton and the Pirates.
Feb 18 2015Morton (hip) has begun throwing up to 30-to-40 pitches in bullpen sessions, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton resumed mound work in January, and appears to be upping his activity with each passing week as he zeroes in on a return for Opening Day. The right-hander will likely face some limitations throughout spring training, but assuming he's sufficiently healthy by the time the Pirates break camp, he'll likely have a line on a rotation spot. The 31-year-old posted a 3.72 ERA and 1.27 WHIP while covering 157.1 innings last season.
Jan 14 2015Morton (hip) threw off a mound Tuesday, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton threw about 15-to-20 pitches during the session, his first off a mound since undergoing surgery Sept. 26 to repair a torn labrum in his right hip. The right-hander previous underwent the same procedure on his other hip in October 2011, and his experience with the injury leads him to believe he'll be fully recovered in time for Opening Day.
Dec 15 2014Morton (hip) believes he'll be ready to join the Pirates' starting rotation by Opening Day, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports."When I get on the mound (in spring training), that will give me a great indicator of where I am," Morton said. The righthander, who underwent hip surgery in September, is already throwing from 120 feet. When healthy, Morton is expected to slot into Pittsburgh's rotation as it's third or fourth starter.
Dec 12 2014Morton (hip) is progressing well from his hip surgery in September and hopes to be ready by April, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton had a decent 2014 campaign before landing on the disabled list with a variety of injuries, posting a 3.72 ERA and 1.27 WHIP in 26 starts. Even if he's ready by April, it seems as though he'll miss at least part of spring training, so the 31-year-old may not be ready by the start of the season.
Sep 26 2014Morton underwent surgery Friday to repair the labrum in his right hip, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton will have an estimated timetable of 6-8 months for recovery from the injury. He has undergone major surgery three times in the past four years, including surgery on the labrum in his left hip in October of 2011. The Pirates will be without his services for the postseason and Morton's availability for the start of next season could be questionable.
Sep 24 2014Morton (groin) was placed on the 60-day DL on Wednesday.Morton tried, admirably, to pitch through his sports hernia, but with the pain in his groin, abdominal and hip areas persisting, the decision was made to just shut him down for the year. He acknowledged last week that surgery is a "possibility." Chaz Roe was claimed off waivers from the Yankees to take Morton's spot on the Pirates' 40-man roster.
Sep 19 2014Morton is dealing with groin, abdominal and hip pain and will miss his scheduled start Sunday, the Pittsburgh Tribune's Travis Sawchik reports.He said he was discouraged by his bullpen session Thursday and will be evaluated next week, adding that surgery is a "possibility." It sounds like those chasing counting stats in single-season mixed leagues might be best served to move on from Morton. Vance Worley will get the start Sunday in Morton's place. The best-case scenario for Morton's owners is that he feels better next week and can make his final start of the season Sept. 26 in Cincinnati.
Sep 14 2014Morton (hernia) will start Tuesday's game against the Red Sox, MLB.com's Tom Singer reports.Morton is set to return to action after throwing a five-inning simulated game last week. He will replace Vance Worley in the Pirates' rotation, and should see two starts -- both at home -- during the upcoming week.
Sep 10 2014Morton (hernia) threw a five-inning, 86-pitch simulated game Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton reported feeling good after the simulated game, and said he believes he is ready to pitch now. Manager Clint Hurdle said the team's plan is to have Morton continue throwing bullpen sessions and simulated games before determining a return date. Hurdle also left open the possibility that Morton could return to the team out of the bullpen, though there hasn't been an official decision yet.
Sep 5 2014Morton (hernia) threw a bullpen session Friday and is scheduled to throw a simulated game in Philadelphia on Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Bill Brink reports.This is in line with his previously discussed rehab plan, and following Tuesday's sim game we should have a better idea when Morton will return to the Pirates' rotation.
Sep 2 2014Morton (hernia) threw a simulated game Tuesday and manager Clint Hurdle has planned a side session for Morton either Thursday or Friday followed by another simulated game Tuesday, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton is still on the road to recovery from a sports hernia that has cause him to miss the past few weeks. Manager Clint Hurdle will decide where to go once the simulated game is completed Tuesday, as the team awaits Morton's return to the rotation for the playoff run in September.
Aug 30 2014Morton said Saturday that a decision has not been made regarding possible sports hernia surgery, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton fanned six over four innings in a rehab start for Double-A Altoona on Thursday, but he also gave up two runs on four hits and was clearly grimacing on most of his follow-throughs. Perhaps the Pirates will decide to just send him for surgery, but Morton said he'd be open to pitching out of the bullpen over the rest of the season.
Aug 30 2014The Pirates are unsure whether Morton (sports hernia) will pitch in Pittsburgh in September after a tepid rehab start for Double-A Altoona on Thursday.Morton grimaced during his follow-through on a majority of his pitches. His velocity -- 88 to 92 mph was decent enough for a late-season appearance -- but he didn't dominate the Double-A batters he faced. Don't look for Morton to pitch again unless the Pirates get hit by a number of other injuries, as the righty is operating at far less than 100 percent.
Aug 25 2014Morton (sports hernia) will make a rehab start at Double-A Altoona on Thursday, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton is expected to throw five innings, with a cap around 75 pitches. The Pirates would probably prefer to have Morton make two turns in the minors before returning to the rotation, but with the team in a dogfight for one of the two Wild Card spots, his activation could be hastened.
Aug 20 2014Morton, who was originally placed on the DL on Sunday with right hip inflammation, has been re-diagnosed with a sports hernia, MLB.com's Tom Singer reports.Morton still intends to return this season, however, the nature of this injury would seem to be more problematic than simple inflammation. Sports hernias typically require a surgical procedure, but Morton plans to push that back to the offseason in an attempt to pitch through the ailment. The Pirates are quickly fading from the NL playoff race in the wake of their seven-game losing streak, and if they find themselves out of contention by the time Morton is deemed ready to return, the team brass may just opt to shut the right-hander down for the season and send him in for surgery.
Aug 17 2014Morton was placed on the 15-day DL Sunday due to right hip inflammation.Morton lasted just three innings Friday, and has allowed five earned runs in back-to-back starts, but it's possible the injury has affected his performance. He'll be out of commission until early September, with the move clearing up a spot for Gerrit Cole to start Wednesday against the Braves. For now, Brent Morel was recalled to serve as a temporary replacement on the roster.
Aug 15 2014Morton struggled once again on Friday, giving up five runs on seven hits and three walks in just three innings. He struck out three.He's been tagged for four or more runs in five of his last seven starts, giving him a ghastly ERA of 6.00 over that stretch, and he hasn't won a decision in over a month. The Pirates may need to think about removing Morton from the rotation if they want to stay in the wild card hunt.
Aug 10 2014Morton labored through five innings in Sunday's loss to San Diego, allowing five hits and five earned runs while walking one and striking out five.Morton cruised through the first three innings before running into trouble in the top of the fourth. The wheels then came off in the fifth inning, as Morton gave up three hits and four runs, with Seth Smith's bases-clearing triple doing the damage. Morton, who's now 5-11 with a 3.62 ERA on the year, will next take the hill Friday in Washington. He's gone 2-7 with a 4.52 ERA in 13 road starts so far this season.
Aug 6 2014Morton tossed a solid game Tuesday against the Marlins but settled for a no-decision, after he pitched seven innings, allowing just one run on six hits and four walks while striking out four batters.Although he got a no-decision Tuesday after the Pirates bullpen blew the lead for him, Morton did at least rebound for a quality start. Prior to Tuesday's outing, Morton had allowed eight runs in his last two starts (spanning 11 innings). Morton now has a solid 3.43 ERA and 1.23 WHIP in 144.1 innings pitched this year. His next start is set for Sunday at home against the Padres.
Jul 30 2014Morton (5-10) allowed four runs on nine hits and three walks with two strikeouts over five innings Wednesday in a 7-5 loss to the Giants.Morton got in and out of trouble all day, but gave up only singles, limiting the damage. The right-hander is 1-1 with a 3.99 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 24:12 K:BB ratio in six July starts. Morton will take the hill Tuesday versus the Marlins.
Jul 25 2014Morton (5-10) took the loss on Friday against the Rockies as he pitched six innings giving up four runs on seven hits while striking out three batters.It was a rough seventh inning for Morton as he pitched to three batters without recording an out. Prior to the seventh, Morton was going strong only giving up one run until that point. His season record is not indicative of how he has pitched, as Morton's ERA sits at 3.40 with a sub-1.20 WHIP.
Jul 19 2014Morton received no decision while allowing two runs in seven innings against the Rockies on Saturday.Morton delivered his fourth quality start in his last five outings, but he matched a season low with three strikeouts. Morton has made 11 starts since May 23 and allowed more than two earned runs in just two of them. Those two starts are the only ones in which Morton had more fly ball outs than ground ball outs in that span. Clearly, Morton does better when he keeps the ball on the ground.
Jul 12 2014Morton pitched to another no-decision Saturday, giving up five earned runs on six hits -- two of them homers -- while walking two and striking out six in six innings against the Reds.Morton was cruising along with a 4-0 lead until the sixth when he gave up a pair of bombs -- and the lead -- to Chris Heisey and Todd Frazier. Fortunately, Andrew McCutchen teed off in the top of the ninth to knot things up at five, letting Morton off the hook for what would have been his his 10th loss of the season (he's currently 5-9). The seventh-year big leaguer wraps up the first half with a 3.32 ERA, 42:100 BB:K ratio and a 1.19 WHIP across 19 starts (119.1 innings).
Jul 7 2014Cole (lat muscle) could miss his start Wednesday. "I've got nothing for you on that," said Cole, when asked by the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Rob Biertempfel about whether he's in line for Wednesday's start.He left his last start early after experiencing lat pain. With Pittsburgh's starting pitching doing so well right now, it wouldn't be surprising to see the team give Cole extra time off.
Jul 7 2014Morton pitched well in a no-decision Monday, shutting out the Cardinals for seven innings.Morton allowed just one hit and fanned five in the impressive outing. The veteran has been a stabilizing presence for the Pirates on the mound, working at least six innings in each of his last six starts. He'll face the Reds in his next start.
Jun 25 2014Morton struck out 11 and walked one while giving up three runs -- two earned -- on four hits over seven innings in a loss to the Rays on Wednesday.After a three-run first inning, Morton settled down and pitched very well on a day where David Price shut down the Pittsburgh offense. During a five-start stretch against the Rays, Cubs (twice), Marlins and Padres, Morton has racked up 39 strikeouts in his last 32 innings. Morton is on track to start Tuesday against the D-Backs at PNC Park in his next outing.
Jun 20 2014Morton took the loss in Friday's game after allowing six runs on eight hits and two walks.Morton also struck out six in the game, but struggled to get ahead in the count, throwing first pitch strikes on just 15 of 28 batters. He was also bitten by the home run bug, giving up four of his six runs on two swings of the bat. The loss drops Morton's record to 4-8 on the season despite his 3.47 ERA and 1.26 WHIP on the season. He will look to get win number five when he takes the mound in his next scheduled start on Thursday in Tampa Bay.
Jun 14 2014Morton limited the Marlins to two runs on five hits and three walks Saturday, striking out six for his fourth victory in five starts.His control wasn't spectacular -- he threw 69 of 108 pitches for strikes -- but helped to induce three ground-ball double plays with a 10:3 GO:FO ratio. Morton lowered his earned-run average to a season-low 3.09 in 87.1 innings.
Jun 7 2014Pirates manager Clint Hurdle suggested it may be Jeff Locke, and not Morton, who starts Sunday's game against the Brewers, Tom Singer of MLB.com reports.Locke was scratched from his scheduled start for Triple-A Indianapolis on Friday, and when asked about the possibility of Locke starting over Morton in the finale against Milwaukee, Hurdle said it's "something to ponder." There's been nothing to suggest Morton is injured, but he is 2-7 this season and Brewers batters have combined to hit .281/.364/.375 against him.
Jun 3 2014Morton worked five strong innings, allowing two earned runs on three hits while racking up nine strikeouts in Monday's victory over the Padres.Though currently tied for the Major League lead in losses, Morton's record gives little insight into just how solid he has been for the Pirates since the beginning of May. Over his last seven starts, the 30-year-old hurler has posted an impressive 2.55 ERA while holding the opposition to a .276 slugging percentage. Morton holds just a 6.6 K/9 on the season, so his nine whiffs in this outing should be considered an aberration. However, given his ability to induce ground balls and avoid giving up homers, the right-hander holds a decent amount of value as a back end option in NL-Only and deeper mixed leagues.
May 28 2014Morton surrendered three runs (two earned) over 5.1 innings in Wednesday's loss to the Mets, with his season record dropping to 1-7.For the second consecutive outing, Morton allowed four free passes, bringing his pitch count over 100 before he was able to complete the sixth inning. He was also charged with two wild pitches. Morton has managed to maintain a sturdy 3.29 ERA for the season despite the recent downturn, but he'll need to rein in his control if he hopes to work deeper into games and put himself in position for more wins.
May 23 2014Morton picked up his first win of the season allowing just one run on five hits, walking four and striking out four over 5.2 innings of a 4-3 win against the Nationals on Friday night.He's now 1-6 but his 3.29 ERA suggests he hasn't pitched poorly enough to deserve that record. He often struggles with control as he did in this one (he threw 108 pitches, only 64 for strikes) but he usually manages to at least limit the damage. He'll take on the Mets on the road next time out.
May 18 2014Morton (0-6) surrendered four earned runs in seven innings Sunday, allowing six hits, one walk and one HBP with six strikeouts.He gave up four runs in the first two innings, before settling down with an effective sinker. His 114 pitches (74 for strikes) represents his highest pitch total in 2014. Morton has now allowed a three-run inning in five of his nine starts.
May 18 2014Morton saw his record drop to 0-6 in the first game of Sunday's doubleheader to the Yankees, after giving up four runs on six hits and a walk over seven innings.Morton did well to limit the Yankees to one extra-base hit over his seven innings, but opposing starter Hiroki Kuroda was a little bit better in constricting the Pirates' bats. With a 3.45 ERA on the season, Morton deserves a much better fate than his record would indicate.
May 12 2014Morton turned in six innings, allowing four runs (one earned) on seven hits with three strikeouts in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals.Despite falling to a an unsightly 0-5 on the season, Morton actually put up a solid effort Sunday night versus the Cardinals. All four runs he gave up came in the first inning with three being of the unearned variety. The 30-year-old right-hander followed up with five scoreless frames, dropping his ERA to a very respectable 3.22 for the campaign. Morton holds decent value in NL-Only format and deeper mixed leagues.
May 6 2014Morton limited the Giants to one unearned run in eight innings Tuesday, allowing three hits and two walks while striking out three.He threw just 65 of 107 pitches for strikes in an effectively wild outing. San Francisco started just three lefties against Morton, who typically has a tougher time against left-handed hitters. He remains winless in 2014 as the Pirates were unable to plate the winning run until the bottom of the ninth inning. Morton now sports a 3.45 ERA and 1.26 WHIP in 44.1 innings.
May 2 2014Morton (0-4) took another loss Thursday, allowing four runs (two earned) on seven hits and two walks in 5.1 innings against Baltimore.Morton's been rough this year, and his stat line would be rougher still if not for five of his runs being unearned. He'll carry an ugly 1.40 WHIP into next week's home start against the Giants.
Apr 30 2014Morton's scheduled start for Wednesday against the Orioles have been postponed due to rain, Eduardo Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports.The interleague matchup will be made up as part of a doubleheader Thursday, with Morton highly likely to get the nod for one of the two games.
Apr 29 2014Morton is expected to start Wednesday against the Orioles, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.The forecast in Baltimore calls for rain again Wednesday, but the plan is for Morton to move back one day following Tuesday's postponement. Morton has been just mediocre thus far (4.35 ERA, 1.35 WHIP), and the weather risk will make him a rather unappealing option in daily leagues.
Apr 29 2014Tuesday's game against the Orioles has been postponed, Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com reports.Morton was scheduled to toe the rubber Tuesday, but the game was postponed due to inclement weather. The right-hander has gone 0-3 with a 4.35 ERA and a 1.35 WHIP through five starts, but Morton seems likely to just move back to Wednesday, assuming Mother Nature complies.
Apr 23 2014Morton fell to 0-3 on the year Wednesday as he gave up four runs (three earned) over six innings on four hits against Cincinnati.Morton walked five and struck out four which contributed to his throwing of 108 pitches (59 strikes). He'll look to get back on track in his next outing against Baltimore on the road, a tall task indeed.
Apr 18 2014Morton labored through six innings, giving up five earned runs on eight hits with three strikeouts and two walks Friday night versus the Brewers.Morton has been up and down over his first four outings of 2014. The 30-year-old hurler has a couple of quality starts, but also been knocked around in his other two efforts. At this point, sitting with an 0-2 record and 4.32 ERA, Morton is really only a decent option for those in NL-Only format.
Apr 13 2014Morton was dealt his first loss of the season Sunday, allowing six hits, four runs (two earned) and three walks with three strikeouts over seven innings.Morton's command was a bit off Sunday, as he threw just 61 of 95 pitches for strikes while issuing four walks. He didn't catch any breaks from his defense either though, as a throwing error by Tony Sanchez allowed two runs to cross in the bottom of the sixth. It wouldn't have mattered in the end however, as the Pirates only gave him one run of support. Morton will get another shot at Kyle Lohse and the Brewers his next time out on April 18.
Apr 8 2014Morton gave up five earned runs Tuesday on eight hits and one walk with five strikeouts in six innings against the Cubs.He gave up a couple home runs (both to Starling Castro) which was his undoing in his follow-up effort after an excellent first start of the season. As is usually the case, Morton isn't as bad as he was Tuesday and he isn't as good as he was in his first start of 2014 when he tossed six shutout innings while striking out six. His lack of effectiveness could be due to the fact that he was facing the Cubs for his second start in a row, and they clearly had a better plan of attack the second time around. He will look to bounce back Sunday in Milwaukee.
Apr 4 2014Morton could start Sunday against St. Louis if Edinson Volquez, who threw two relief innings Thursday, is unable to go, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Volquez was expected to throw a bullpen Thursday, but instead took the mound against the Cubs. He only threw 28 pitches, making it likely Pittsburgh starts him against the Cardinals, but there's an outside chance Morton gets the nod. We should know which direction the Pirates take by the end of Friday.
Mar 5 2014Morton induced five ground balls in three scoreless innings against Detroit on Tuesday, unveiling a new offspeed pitch in addition to a biting, sinking fastball, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.The righthander threw a hybrid split-change against a left-handed batter, trying to limit the damage lefties do against him. Morton compiled an excellent 62.9 percent ground-ball rate in 116 IP last season, but allowed lefties to hit .312 with an .844 OPS. Most likely, Morton will continue to be a better fantasy option against right-handed lineups.
Feb 28 2014Morton threw two scoreless innings Thursday against the Yankees, walking one while striking out one batter.In 2013, the righthander didn't make his first start until June following Tommy John surgery. Morton compiled a 3.26 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in 116 innings after returning, however, and limited hitters to a .261 batting average -- the best mark of his career. He could provide nice value in Pittsburgh, providing he finds a way to stay healthy.
Dec 11 2013Morton%20agreed%20to%20a%20three-year%2C%20%2421%20million%20contract%20with%20the%20Pirates%20on%20Wednesday%2C%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22http%3A//sports.yahoo.com/news/pirates-sign-right-hander-charlie-morton-to-three-year---21-million-extension-181422513.html%22%3EYahoo%21%20Sports%3C/a%3E%20reports.Morton%27s%20contract%20will%20pay%20him%20%244%20million%20in%20the%20first%20year%20and%20%248%20million%20in%20the%20next%20two%20years%2C%20and%20also%20includes%20a%20%249.5%20million%20team%20option%20for%20the%202017%20season.%20Morton%20has%20battled%20a%20number%20of%20injuries%20over%20the%20last%20couple%20years%2C%20but%20the%20Pirates%20are%20banking%20on%20him%20remaining%20healthy%20and%20effective%20coming%20off%20a%20career-best%20season%20that%20saw%20him%20post%20a%203.26%20ERA%20and%201.28%20WHIP%20over%2020%20starts.%20Morton%27s%20contract%2C%20which%20is%20the%20largest%20for%20a%20pitcher%20in%20Pirates%20history%2C%20essentially%20locks%20him%20into%20a%20spot%20in%20the%20starting%20rotation%2C%20as%20long%20as%20he%20enters%20the%202014%20season%20healthy.
Dec 11 2013Morton agreed to a three-year, $21 million contract with the Pirates on Wednesday, Yahoo! Sports reports.Morton's contract will pay him $4 million in the first year and $8 million in the next two years, and also includes a $9.5 million team option for the 2017 season. Morton has battled a number of injuries over the last couple years, but the Pirates are banking on him remaining healthy and effective coming off a career-best season that saw him post a 3.26 ERA and 1.28 WHIP over 20 starts. Morton's contract, which is the largest for a pitcher in Pirates history, essentially locks him into a spot in the starting rotation as long as he enters the 2014 season healthy.
Sep 28 2013Morton gave up three runs on five hits and five walks with three strikeouts in 4.1 innings Saturday against the Reds.It wasn't what the Pirates were looking for in terms of command, but Bronson Arroyo gave up five home runs to Pirates hitters, so Morton's sub-par outing didn't lead to a loss. The Pirates locked up home-field advantage in the National League wild card game on Tuesday, but this could very well have been Morton's final start of the year.
Sep 23 2013Morton pitched well in a no-decision Monday night, shutting out the Cubs over seven innings of work.Morton allowed just three hits, but didn't factor into the decision after Mark Melancon allowed a run in the eighth inning. Morton has pitched very well of late, allowing a total of 17 earned runs in his last 10 starts. He's currently lineup up to face the Reds on the final game of the season.
Sep 18 2013Morton was brilliant Wednesday as he gave up just one earned run on two hits over eight innings.Morton walked three, but struck out nine, and was in line for his eighth win of the year until Mark Melancon blew the save in the ninth. He'll look for a similar start in his next outing against Cincinnati on the road.
Sep 12 2013Manager Clint Hurdle confirmed that Morton (foot) would start Friday against the Cubs, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.The Pirates were evidently pleased with what they saw from Morton when he threw off flat ground Wednesday, so he'll return to the rotation without having to miss a start. With the Pirates in the midst of tight NL Central race with the Cardinals and Reds, Morton will need to demonstrate he's fully healthy Friday in order to continue to yield further starts.
Sep 10 2013The Pirates will wait until Wednesday before deciding whether Morton (foot) makes his scheduled start Friday, according to manager Clint Hurdle.Hurdle said during Tuesday's pre-game radio show that Morton will throw off flat ground Wednesday. If he feels good, then he'll make his start against the Cubs. If not, then the righty would likely be pushed back a day or two.
Sep 10 2013Morton (foot) expects to make his scheduled start Friday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton considers his foot injury to be minor, and it appears he will be able to take the ball Friday as long as he makes it through his Wednesday bullpen session without issue.
Sep 9 2013Morton has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis and will toss a bullpen session Wednesday to test his foot out, the Pirates' official website reports.Morton is scheduled to pitch Friday, but his start could be pushed back or cancelled if the bullpen session doesn't go well. While the plantar fasciitis diagnosis is far from ideal, the Pirates are saying that Morton has a relatively minor case. The knuckle-baller turned in six consecutive quality starts before leaving Sunday's game in the second inning.
Sep 9 2013Morton (foot) will attempt to throw a bullpen session in the next couple days, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.The Pirates have not revealed the results of the exam Morton underwent on his sore foot Monday, but it appears he will try to pitch through any lingering pain. Expect an update on Morton's status as more details become available.
Sep 8 2013Morton left the second inning of Sunday's game with an undisclosed injury.He gave no indication on the mound of what might be hurting him. Morton returned from Tommy John Surgery in June and has been Pittsburgh's best pitcher over the last month or so. He was struggling Sunday, however, allowing six hits in 1.2 innings.
Sep 8 2013Morton (foot) is on his way back to Pittsburgh for an evaluation, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Foot discomfort was the initial diagnosis for Morton, who appeared to injure himself while backing up a base in the second inning of Sunday's game. A physician will look Morton over to be sure the injury is nothing more severe.
Sep 8 2013Morton left Sunday's game with discomfort in his foot, according to ROOT Sports in Pittsburgh.It appears the Pirates dodged a bullet, as Morton's injury doesn't sound too severe, though it's interesting that the righty didn't even attempt at least one warm-up pitch after injuring himself.
Aug 24 2013Morton gave up just one run on seven hits and a walk with three strikeouts over 7.2 innings against the Giants on Friday.Morton looked sharp in this one and has now thrown four straight quality starts, allowing a total of seven runs over 27.2 innings (2.28 ERA) with a 17:6 K:BB. He'll look to make it five straight with an outing against the Brewers next week.
Aug 24 2013Morton's 7.2 inning outing Friday was his longest since returning from Tommy John surgery and his longest since August of 2011.Morton has allowed only seven earned runs in his last four starts, a span covering 27.2 frames. He's throwing his fastball harder than ever (93.1 mph) with a high ground-ball rate (65.7 percent) which would rank first overall with more innings pitched. Morton still struggles against lefties (.322 BAA), but he's settling in as Pittsburgh's no. 3 starter.
Aug 19 2013Morton held the Diamondbacks to two runs on seven hits and three walks, while recording six strikeouts in seven innings, during the Pirates' extra-inning defeat Sunday.Despite tallying his third consecutive quality start and reducing his season ERA to 3.67, Morton has taken a no-decision in back-to-back outings, both against respected opponents (the other being the Cardinals). In his upcoming nod, he'll face a dismal one in San Francisco, who welcomed him to the 2013 campaign on June 13 by racking up four runs (two earned) with a 5:1 K:BB ratio across five frames.
Aug 13 2013Morton gave up two earned runs on seven hits and two walks with three Ks in six innings Tuesday against the Cardinals.He came into Tuesday's game with a 2-6 record and a 6.30 ERA against the Cardinals, having lost five consecutive decisions, but he had no problem logging a quality start in this one. Poor defense in the ninth inning cost him a win, but the start was pretty impressive nonetheless. The Bucs go home for Morton's next start, Sunday against Arizona.
Aug 7 2013Morton improved to 4-3 Wednesday as he gave up just two earned runs on six hits over seven innings.Morton struck out five and walked none in his outing. He needed just 86 pitches (59 strikes) and lowered his ERA to 3.88. He'll take on the Cardinals in his next start in what will be a much tougher assignment.
Jul 27 2013Morton allowed four runs, three earned, over five innings and was the winning pitcher Saturday against the Marlins.He gave up nine hits while walking none and striking out six. Though there was nothing attractive about this start, especially since it was against the lowly Marlins, he still recorded the win and helped the Pirates go to 20 games over .500. The win brings his record to 3-2 on the season to go along with a 3.59 ERA and 33 strikeouts.
Jul 22 2013Morton won Monday against the Nationals as he pitched 6.2 innings and allowed three runs, six hits and one walk to go along with five strikeouts.Morton has now posted back-to-back quality starts for the first time this season and leveled his record off at 2-2. The Pirates have an excellent bullpen backing him up, so he could start to accumulate wins quickly if he can continue to post quality starts.
Jul 12 2013Morton was solid Friday night, allowing two runs on six hits, walking one and striking out four over seven innings, but was left with a no-decision in a game the Pirates would go on to win in 11 innings.Morton has been back for a month now after having Tommy John surgery in July of last year. He has a 3.19 ERA, but it is a bit misleading as six of the 17 runs he has allowed over the 31 innings he has pitched have been unearned. He is still shaking off the rust and building strength after the layoff so he is a risky play in most match-ups.
Jul 6 2013Morton surrendered four runs over six innings and took the loss against the Cubs on Saturday.Morton struck out six batters and didn't toss a bad game, but a pair of two-run homers off the bat of Alfonso Soriano were enough to do the Pirates in. Morton will hope to get back on track in a friendly matchup against the Mets on Friday.
Jun 30 2013Morton's start against the Brewers on Sunday was cut short by a long rain delay. He gave up one unearned run on two hits over two innings before play was suspended.The Brewers were able to take the lead on a sacrifice fly from Logan Schafer in the second inning, but a throwing error by Yuniesky Betancourt kept the run off Morton's ledger. Morton can now look ahead to his next start, which comes Saturday against the Cubs.
Jun 23 2013Morton gave up six runs (three earned) over 5.2 innings against the Angels on Sunday. He walked five and struck out five.Morton's control was an issue here as he needed 99 pitches (57 strikes) and didn't even make it out of the sixth inning. He induced 13 ground balls as compared to two fly balls Sunday, but he's got a ways to go with his command. Still, he's pitched well enough to stay in the rotation since his return from Tommy John surgery.
Jun 18 2013Morton allowed just three base-runners, all reaching on singles, in 5.1 innings Tuesday, with a pair of strikeouts en route to picking up his first win of the season.This was Morton's second start since returning from the disabled list following Tommy John surgery, and it was a marked improvement from his previous outing, where he gave up seven hits over five innings. He was clearly on a bit of a pitch count Tuesday, as he was dominant, but threw just 61 pitches. So far he's averaging just over five innings per start since his return, so even if he's pitching fairly well, his ability to help with counting stats will be limited until he can pitch deeper into games.
Jun 18 2013Morton went 3-0 with a 0.93 ERA in four starts against the Reds in 2011, his opponent on Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton will be making his second start since returning from the disabled list following Tommy John surgery, and he gave up two earned runs and seven hits over five innings in his first outing. The Reds slugged four home runs last night, and Great American Ballpark isn't exactly a pitcher's paradise, but Morton has worked on his sinker during his off days, and will look to keep the ball down, and in the ballpark, when he takes the bump.
Jun 13 2013Morton's first start of the season Thursday is the only start he's guaranteed, manager Clint Hurdle tells the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review."This won't be an opportunity to bring guys back and give them three or four starts and hope they get better each time," Hurdle said. The Pirates have a wealth of options at the back end of their rotation, with Morton, James McDonald and Jeanmar Gomez all nearing a return to health. Morton remains the best option of this group, so Thursday's outing should go a long way towards determining his future value.
Jun 13 2013Morton (elbow) was activated from the disabled list Thursday.Morton will get the starting nod Thursday against the Giants just 364 days after undergoing Tommy John surgery, hitting the absolute low-end on that recovery timetable. He looked relatively sharp during his three rehab starts across three levels and should enjoy a somewhat lengthy stay in the rotation with five other Pirates starters currently on the disabled list.
Jun 11 2013Morton (elbow) is expected to make his season debut Thursday for the Pirates.Morton holds a 3.79 ERA in 19 innings in four Triple-A starts. The Pirates will call on the righty to serve as third or fourth starter capable of eating innings. Historically, Morton has pitched much better against right-handed lineups than left-handed batting orders, something to keep in mind when deciding whether to start or sit the sinker baller.
Jun 9 2013Morton (elbow) is in line to start for the Pirates on Thursday if Wandy Rodriguez (forearm) is forced to miss the start, the MLB.com's Tom Singer reports.Rodriguez is set to throw a bullpen session Monday, so the Pirates likely won't have a clear idea until that time if Morton's services will be needed. Morton has been solid over four rehab starts at Triple-A Indianapolis, posting a 3.79 ERA over 19 innings.
Jun 5 2013Morton (elbow) will start for Triple-A Indianapolis on Saturday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Michael Sanserino reports.Morton will likely be activated from the disabled list some time next week, and with injuries piling up in the Pittsburgh rotation, there should be a spot available for him.
Jun 3 2013Morton (elbow) allowed two runs and three hits, while walking four and striking out four in 4.2 innings Sunday for Triple-A Indianapolis.Morton tossed 86 pitches, 49 of those for strikes. He's yet to reach the 100 pitch mark in his rehab outings, and figures to start Friday for Indianapolis before a return to Pittsburgh is considered. That is, unless Jeanmar Gomez's forearm tightness causes him to miss a start.
May 29 2013Morton (elbow) is expected to throw around 80 pitches in his next rehab start Sunday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton could have returned to the big league club after his next start, but the Pirates want him to throw 100 pitches in a game before returning, and the 80-pitch limit signals that he will likely make at least two more minor league appearances before rejoining the big club.
May 28 2013Morton threw five innings Sunday for Triple-A Indianapolis, giving up four runs (three earned,) on seven hits, three walks and three strike outs.He threw 88 pitches, and is slated for one more rehab start where he'll look to reach 100 pitches before being activated.
May 22 2013Morton (elbow) will make two rehab starts (Sunday and again on May 31) before replacing Jeanmar Gomez in the Pirates' rotation, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review reports.On that schedule, Morton will come off the disabled list in early June barring a setback.
May 21 2013Morton (elbow) tossed 4.2 innings in a rehab start with Double-A Altoona on Tuesday.Morton threw 80 pitches in the game before being removed. He will make two more rehab appearances before rejoining the Pirates in June.
May 16 2013Morton (elbow) will make three more rehab starts before returning to the Pirates, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton tossed four innings with Double-A Altoona on Thursday in his first action since April 28. The Pirates were hoping to get Morton back around the end of this month, but assuming he pitches every five days moving forward, his updated timetable has him returning on or shortly after June 5.
May 12 2013Morton (elbow) is expected to receive two more rehab starts before returning to the Pirates on or around May 26, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton figures to make the first of those rehab starts Thursday, depending on how Monday's bullpen session goes. If all goes well with the rest of his rehab, he'll be able to return from Tommy John surgery in just under a year.
May 12 2013Morton (elbow) will throw a bullpen session Monday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.If the bullpen session goes as expected, Morton could be set to resume his rehab assignment. He'll get a fresh 30 days for his rehab after his previous assignment was stopped for more than seven days.
May 10 2013Morton (elbow/shoulder) threw a bullpen without problem Friday, but his rehab is on hold until his shoulder soreness goes away.It appears the recovery from Tommy John surgery is going well, but Pittsburgh is taking a cautious approach with his shoulder pain. Because Morton was shut down during his rehab, he'll have a new clock on his minor-league stint (which could last up to 30 days).
May 8 2013Morton (elbow) threw off flat ground Tuesday and is scheduled to throw a bullpen session over the weekend, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton's rehab has been a smashing success, as he reached an uncommonly high 97 miles per hour on his fastball before experiencing a little discomfort. Still, it doesn't appear anything to be worried about, and he should get back on a mound in the very near future.
May 5 2013Morton (elbow/shoulder) is expected to throw off a mound next weekend, MLB.com's Tom Singer reports.Morton's recent setback was termed as minor shoulder tightness after exams revealed no structural issue, allowing Morton to return to action in relatively short order. He'll throw off flat ground Tuesday before taking part in a bullpen session over the weekend. Morton would presumably head back out on his rehab stint after completing the bullpen session.
May 3 2013Morton (elbow) experienced right shoulder tightness during Friday's rehab start and was removed from the game, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton was well ahead of his recovery timeline from Tommy John surgery, so the setback isn't especially devastating. He was originally ticketed to return to the Pirates on May 14 but it appears that he will now be pushed back a few days at the very least, depending on the severity of the shoulder tightness.
May 1 2013Morton (elbow) is on track to join the Pirates around May 14, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton is entering the final stages of his recovery from Tommy John surgery, and it appears he will need only a couple more minor league starts before joining the big club. Morton's overall value is limited by his lack of strikeouts and 5.06 career ERA, but he won 10 games and posted a 3.83 ERA two years ago in his last full season, so he could be worth a flyer in deeper formats.
Apr 21 2013Morton is scheduled to make his next rehab start at Double-A Altoona on Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.After a positive turn with High-A Bradenton on Thursday, Morton will head to Altoona as he moves forward in his rehab from Tommy John surgery. He's on schedule to join the Pirates at some point in early to mid-May.
Apr 19 2013Morton (elbow) is on pace to join the Pirates on May 8, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.The team hasn't stated an exact debut date for Morton, but it's fair to say Morton will be back pitching for Pittsburgh by mid-May. The righty started for High-A Bradenton on Thursday, allowing two earned runs in three frames. He threw 44 pitches, including 33 for strikes, and struck out two batters.
Apr 17 2013Morton (elbow) is scheduled to throw three innings or 50 pitches for High-A Bradenton on Thursday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton's rehab assignment figures to be a lengthy one with the right-hander still building up his arm strength following Tommy John surgery last May. He'll have a one-month window to rehab in the minors before the Pirates would have to decide to add him to the active roster.
Apr 6 2013Morton (elbow) will throw two innings in an extended spring training game Monday, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.After getting through a 36-pitch bullpen session Friday without issue, Morton will begin pitching in extended spring training games. The right-hander is expected to remain at the team's spring training complex for at least a month before beginning a rehab assignment.
Apr 3 2013Morton (elbow) was scheduled for a 35-pitch simulated game Wednesday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton is expected to remain at the team's facility in Bradenton for at least the next month before embarking on a minor league rehab stint, assuming he experiences no further setbacks during simulated games. Pirates GM Neal Huntington said he anticipated having Morton back sometime in May or June, though it's unclear if he'd be inserted into the rotation right away.
Mar 31 2013Morton (elbow) was placed on the 15-day DL on Sunday.Pirates GM Neal Huntington previously said he expected Morton to return sometime in May or June after undergoing Tommy John surgery last May. While the timetable for recovery from Tommy John is generally one full year at the earliest, Morton has made excellent progress during his rehab and is on track to meet the low-end of that timetable if he doesn't experience any setbacks along the way.
Mar 8 2013Morton (elbow) is set to throw his first batting practice session Monday, MLB.com's Tom Singer reports.Morton was originally scheduled to complete the session Sunday, but with the coaching staff stretched across two split squad games, the team elected to wait a day. Morton will open the season on the disabled list and could rejoin the team sometime around the All-Star break.
Mar 8 2013Pirates GM Neal Huntington said he's looking for Morton (elbow) to come back in the "second or third month of the season."Morton underwent Tommy John surgery in late May 2012. Speaking on Root Sports, Huntington said that Morton is making "very quality progress" and that he's throwing bullpens with fastballs and changeups.
Feb 11 2013Morton (elbow) has thrown four bullpen sessions off a mound in his rehab from Tommy John surgery.Morton underwent the elbow procedure last June, so it looks like he's right on track to return around midseason. He plans on throwing live batting practice before spring training ends and would likely remain at the team's Bradenton, Fla. facility to continue his rehab once the season begins.
Jan 7 2013Morton (elbow) hopes to throw off a mound by late January or early February, and fully expects to pitch in the majors this season, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton continues to rehab from Tommy John surgery in June, and last week he started throwing long-toss on back-to-back days. While Morton said Monday that he "absolutely" will pitch in the majors this season, it's likely he'll be out until at least mid-season.
Dec 1 2012Morton agreed to a one-year, $2 million deal with the Pirates on Friday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.The 29-year-old righty appeared in just nine games in 2012 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. When healthy, Morton's proven to be an innings-eater with a mediocre earned-run average (5.06 career), K/9 (5.8) and WHIP (1.557). He's not expected back until June at the earliest.
Nov 26 2012Morton (elbow) has begun throwing from 75 feet off flat ground, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.Morton continues to make progress in his rehab from surgery for his torn UCL, a procedure he underwent five months ago. Morton is hoping to begin throwing bullpen sessions in January, but not before the Pirates make a decision on whether or not to tender a contract to the arbitration-eligible Morton before Friday. If non-tendered, Morton will become a free agent, but said he would still consider returning to the Pirates.
Jun 14 2012Morton (elbow) underwent Tommy John surgery Thursday and will not likely be ready to return to the majors until next June or July, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Morton tried to pitch through the pain, but it became too much for him to fight through effectively. The recovery time (with rehab) is usually about a year, so it's unlikely we see Morton back in the majors until next June or July.
Jun 14 2012Morton has a torn ligament in his right elbow and is expected to undergo Tommy John surgery, effectively ending his season, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.It's troubling news for the Pirates, who have little in the way of starting pitching depth to begin with. After an effective 2011 campaign, Morton's ERA and batting average against rose to 4.65 and .305, respectively. Brad Lincoln is expected to slot in as the fifth starter unless the team elects to call a starter up from Triple-A.
Jun 1 2012The Pirates placed Morton on the 15-day disabled list Friday with inflammation in his right elbow, according to the teams' official Twitter page.Morton made his last start, but he will be out of the rotation for at least a couple weeks. It's not clear when Morton suffered the injury, but it's likely that it contributed to the struggles he went through in May, when he posted a 5.67 ERA in six starts. The Pirates have yet to announce a return timetable for Morton, but expect an update on his status as further details become available.
May 30 2012Morton gave up four runs on six hits and a walk over four innings against the Reds on Tuesday, striking out none.After owning the Reds last year, Morton has been beaten by them twice in 2012. Just as bothersome as the lack of strikeouts Tuesday was the lack of groundballs, as he generated more flyouts than groundouts.
May 30 2012Morton has lost five of six starts and has posted a 5.71 ERA in those starts.With Jeff Karstens nearing a return and Brad Lincoln throwing well in any capacity, Morton's ineffectiveness may lead him into the bullpen. Since the first two months of 2011, the right-hander has posted a 4.66 ERA. He could still be battling the effects of offseason hip surgery. Whatever the case, Morton has been the weak link of a surprising Pittsburgh starting rotation in 2012.
May 23 2012Morton allowed three runs on eight hits in seven innings Wednesday against the Mets, only to be served with his fifth loss of the year.He walked none, but struck out just one batter. Although Morton gets a lot of ground balls, his inability to miss bats (just 25 strikeouts in 46.1 innings) puts a damper on his effectiveness. Still, this was a solid outing after a four-start stretch in which he gave up 14 earned runs (and another three unearned) in 22.1 innings.
May 18 2012Morton allowed four runs on nine hits, walking one and striking out four over six innings Friday night in a loss to the Tigers.It was a very pedestrian night when it would have taken a brilliant performance to overcome the one-hitter tossed by Justin Verlander. Morton will carry his 2-4 record and 4.35 ERA into his next start at the Mets.
May 6 2012Morton picked up the loss Sunday against the Reds, giving up five runs (four earned) on seven hits and two walks. He also gave up two home runs in the process.Morton gave up more fly balls than ground balls in Sunday's start, which works against his strengths. He's given up four homers in his last three starts after not giving up any in his first two starts and six all season last year.
May 1 2012Morton was beat around by the Cardinals on Tuesday, allowing six runs (five earned) on eight hits in 4.1 innings of work.Morton struck out five against two walks, but the Cardinals made excellent contact and tagged him for three extra base hits, including a three-run home run from David Freese. Morton has a 4.22 ERA this year, and it's unlikely his final line differs greatly from that mark.
Apr 26 2012Morton picked up his first win Wednesday against Colorado, yielding six hits and a walk while striking out a pair in seven innings.The righty compiled an 18:4 GB:FB ratio while walking only one batter. Morton's .286 BABIP in the early going is a bit lower than his career mark (.319), but he's off to a good start after undergoing hip surgery in the offseason.
Apr 20 2012Morton turned in a respectable performance, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits, walking three and striking out six over five innings but dropped a 4-1 decision to St. Louis Friday night.It was just his second start since coming off the disabled list following off-season hip surgery earlier this month. He threw 93 pitches in the outing so it appears he will move forward with no significant pitch count limits.
Apr 14 2012Morton (hip) allowed three runs on seven hits in five innings against the Giants on Saturday, but he did not factor into the decision.Morton started the season on the disabled list after undergoing hip surgery in the offseason, but he did not look too rusty in his first start back. He threw 70 percent of his 71 pitches for strikes, and he did not issue a walk. Morton will need to be sharp moving forward, as it does not look like the Pirate offense will provide much help in the short-run.
Apr 14 2012The Pirates activated Morton and will start him Saturday against San Francisco.Morton holds a 2.77 ERA and 1.21 WHIP in 39 career innings against the Giants. He'll need to be on with Pittsburgh scoring only 11 runs in seven games.
Apr 13 2012Morton (hip) will be activated to start against the Giants on Saturday, Andrew Baggarly of CSN Bay Area reports.He made it through his rehab start without incident, and should be ready to roll in the back of the Pirates rotation.
Mar 29 2012The Pirates plan to have Morton (hip) begin the season on the DL, the team's official site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The plan is for Morton to stay behind in Florida to pitch a simulated game on Wednesday, after which he will make a start with the Triple-A Indianapolis on April 9, before being re-evaluated, with the next step in mind.
Mar 28 2012Morton allowed six earned runs on eight hits in five innings Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Pirates haven't said what they'll do with Morton, who's coming off hip surgery, but the team doesn't need a fifth starter until April 15. As a result, there's a good chance he'll start the season on the 15-day DL.
Mar 27 2012There's still a chance Charlie Morton (hip) begins 2012 on the disabled list, according to Pirates GM Neal Huntington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Speaking on 93.7 The Fan, Huntington said Monday afternoon that the team could keep three infield reserves on the Opening Day roster by placing Charlie Morton on the DL. Pittsburgh has a light April schedule and could give Morton an extra week or so after undergoing offseason hip surgery.
Mar 24 2012Morton (hip) struck out two and did not walk a batter while giving up just two hits over four shutout innings against the Tigers on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a Detroit lineup without Miguel Cabrera, Prince Fielder and Austin Jackson, but Morton told Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review that he hopes to be ready to make his first scheduled start of the regular season.
Mar 14 2012Morton (hip) gave up four hits in two scoreless innings in his Grapefruit League debut Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He threw worse than his numbers appear but said after the game that he felt okay, which was the primary goal. The Phillies batted seven lefties against Morton and he struggles mightily against them. Last year, left-handed batters hit .364 off Morton while righties hit just .220 -- something to consider when deciding whether to start the sinker-baller.
Mar 11 2012Morton (hip) will pitch two innings against the Phillies on Monday, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's been progressing well in his rehab to this point, but it seems likely that Morton won't be ready to pitch during the first week of the regular season as he's still a bit behind the Pirates' other starters as Monday will mark his first game action of the spring.
Mar 8 2012Morton (hip) saw his first live action Wednesday, completing one-plus innings of up-and-down work, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: 93I felt good in the first inning,94 he said. 93I was locating my pitches.94 Morton then allowed two hits and a walk in the second frame before reaching a pitch count. 93It kind of got away,94 Morton said. The righty completed his morning without any apparent setbacks to his surgically-repaired hip, making the outing a success.
Mar 4 2012Morton (hip) hopes to pitch at a minor league scrimmage at Pirate City on Wednesday, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's next step in his rehab is to get into some live pitching situations, and it sounds like he might get that opportunity on Wednesday. A more concrete update on his pitching schedule will probably be available after the Pirates' game on Sunday.
Mar 3 2012Morton (hip) completed his 40-pitch batting-practice session Saturday without incident, the Pirates' Web site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: "His stuff, his arm, the way the ball was coming out of his hand -- it all looked good," pitching coach Ray Searage said. "And he felt good, health-wise, which is the main thing we have to look at." Barring any setbacks, Morton will throw one inning during a "B" game Wednesday.
Mar 1 2012Morton, who threw two innings of batting practice Wednesday, will throw 40 pitches Saturday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was thought to be out until May after undergoing offseason hip surgery but is ahead of schedule. With A,J, Burnett sidelined indefinitely with a broken orbital bone there's a chance he could be back in April, though the team rushed James McDonald back last spring and his performance suffered.
Feb 20 2012Morton (hip) threw 35 pitches during a bullpen session Monday, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said that Morton may actually be ahead of schedule with his rehab at the present time, but keep in mind that he is already one week behind the Pirates' other pitchers and it's possible that Pittsburgh could simply use the team's off-days in April to buy him time when the regular season begins to get fully stretched out before adding him back into the rotation.
Feb 18 2012The acquisition of A.J. Burnett could slow down the rehabilitation process for Morton (hip), the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton is about a week behind Pittsburgh's other starting pitchers heading into camp and the team has plenty of off-days in April. Last year the team rushed James McDonald back from an abdominal injury during spring training and he didn't find his groove for the first couple months of the season. Morton will never be a top pitcher until he learns how to get lefties out -- they hit .364 off of him in 2011 -- but right-handed dominated lineups make Morton a quality option. Morton held righties to a .220 batting average.
Jan 16 2012Morton has signed a one-year deal with the Pirates worth $2.445 million, Jenifer Langosch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton is currently rehabbing from hip surgery but is expected to return in time for training camp. He had a big rebound year in 2011, with a 3.83 ERA, but he struggled with walks (77 in 171.2 innings) and didn't record many strikeouts either (just 110). If he continues to get ground balls at an incredible rate (3.2 ground balls per fly ball allowed), he could still be somewhat effective, but unfortunately he'll suffer in the strikeouts and WHIP category regardless.
Jan 12 2012Morton (hip) expects to be ready for the start of spring training, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton underwent hip surgery in October but believes he'll be ready for the start of camp. "Everything I do is done on the side of caution," Morton said Wednesday. "But I think I can get back on time." Morton went 10-10 with a 3.83 ERA in 29 starts in 2011. He led the Pirates with 171.2 innings pitched.
Oct 11 2011Morton underwent hip surgery Monday to repair a torn labrum and is expected to miss about six months, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As a result, he's expected to miss the start of the 2012 campaign. Morton put together his best season in the majors last year, going 10-10 with a 3.83 ERA and 1.53 WHIP. His 2.42 GO:AO ratio was one of the league's best.
Sep 26 2011Morton did not earn a decision on Monday night against the Brewers. He allowed five runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out three in 5 innings. He has a 3.83 ERA to end the season and his record remains at 10-10. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton pitched better than his overall line indicated on Monday. He did allow eight hits, but he produced a 57.9 percent ground ball rate and only a 15.8 percent line drive rate. Morton needs to work on the control of his sinking fastball. His 4.04 BB/9 is too high, but his first pitch strike percentage of 55.2 percent is similar to his 55.8 percent rate in 2010. Look for an improved walk rate next season, and an ERA similar to this season.
Sep 20 2011Morton improved his record to 10-10 after shutting out the Diamondbacks for six innings on Tuesday. He struck out five, walked three and allowed three hits while lowering his ERA to 3.67. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton continues to be a ground ball machine this season. He has produced a 58.5 percent ground ball rate, and opposing hitters have only been able to produce fly balls at an 18.8 percent rate (the lowest among any starting pitcher). Look for Morton to have a better 2012, as he will have an entire season with his new mechanics under his belt.
Sep 15 2011Morton pitched seven solid innings Wednesday against the Cardinals, allowing three runs on six hits, but was stuck with a tough-luck loss. He struck out six and walked three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That makes it four losses in a row for Morton, but at least he pitched well in this one, unlike the last three, all of which were very messy. Although Morton's ERA is not bad, his 102:71 K:BB is still quite concerning; his future success in the majors will be predicated on limiting the walks.
Sep 8 2011The Pirates will skip Morton's start Saturday due to inconsistency, according to manager Clint Hurdle, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has surrendered 12 earned runs in his last 14 innings. He said he usually feels strong toward season's end, but his new arm slot has put strains upon his right arm that he's not used to. "It's almost like all my pitches I throw are new pitches to me," Morton noted. "I'll feel things in parts of my arm where I've never felt a thing before, and then things that used to feel not so great feel fine. It's almost like I'm a totally different pitcher." Rookie Jeff Locke will take his start against the Marlins.
Aug 25 2011Morton struggled in Thursday's start at St. Louis, surrendering five runs and nine hits in just 4.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was easily Morton's worst start since July 29, as he had been awesome in August, posting a 0.95 ERA in his previous 28.1 innings this month.
Aug 21 2011Morton allowed two earned runs in six innings Saturday, giving up seven hits and a walk while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He left the game with a lead, only to see reliever Chris Resop surrender a tying run. Morton has limited opponents to three earned runs in 28.1 innings through four August starts.
Aug 20 2011Morton heads into his Saturday start with a 0.40 ERA (one earned run in 21 frames) and 0.99 WHIP in three August appearances. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton is also 3-0 against Cincinnati in 2011, limiting the Reds to one run in 23 innings. If he can get past the red-hot Joey Votto and fellow lefty Jay Bruce, then he's got a shot at another fine outing.
Aug 15 2011Morton struck out five and walked two over 7.1 innings but did not factor in the decision despite holding the Brewers to one run on four hits. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Unfortunately for Morton, Joel Hanrahan struck out Nyjer Morgan with a passed ball after entering the game in the eighth and Ryan Braun capitalized with a game-tying RBI single. Morton continues to pitch well in August with a 16:7 K:BB in 22.1 innings and just one earned run allowed during that span.
Aug 9 2011Lefty hitters are batting .384 with a 34:27 BB:K ratio against Morton after Monday night, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has limited right-handed hitters to a .194 batting average and holds a 51:20 K:BB ratio against right-handed hitters. "I92m starting to figure out who I am as a pitcher," Morton said. "You look at the numbers, the lefties have been a problem. I need to make an adjustment. I can92t rely on facing righties for the rest of my career. I got to figure out how to get lefties out." Morton stretched his consecutive shutout innings streak to 17 innings Monday.
Aug 8 2011Morton shut the Giants out for eight innings on Monday night, allowing only six hits and two walks, striking out four. He earned his ninth victory of the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's transformation to a ground ball pitcher has been well documented this season. His component numbers are below average (5.56 K/9 and 3.85 BB/9), but his 3.90 xFIP indicates he has pitched as well as his 3.60 ERA suggests.
Aug 3 2011Morton bounced back with seven shutout innings Wednesday against the Pirates, striking out seven and allowing just five hits and two walks, but he received no decision, as Matt Garza matched zeroes against him. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was quite a turnaround from his last start, in which he got bombarded by the Phillies. But hey, the Phillies have seen Roy Halladay's delivery, which Morton has copied, every fifth day for two years; the Cubs have not.
Jul 30 2011Morton was hammered for six earned runs on nine hits and four walks in four innings Friday, in part, because the Pirates bullpen was still experiencing fatigue from the Atlanta series and had the righty take one for the team. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton threw 103 pitches, including only 63 for strikes, in his four frames and faced 27 batters. His splits against left-handed hitters and righties are becoming more glaring by the start. Lefties are batting .380 against Morton while righties are hitting a Roy Halladay-like .213. Until Morton finds a way to get lefties out, opponents will continue stacking the lineup against him.
Jul 29 2011Morton struggled against the Phillies Friday night, allowing nine hits and eight runs (six earned) in only four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was all over the place, walking four batters to go with the nine hits. According to Baseball America's Ben Badler, Morton has looked fatigued lately, with less velocity and movement on his fastball.
Jul 20 2011Morton has allowed five earned runs in three starts and 16 innings since being skipped in the rotation. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He came back out to pitch Monday following an hour-long, first-inning rain delay, even after throwing 27 pitches. Prior to being skipped, Morton had surrendered 15 earned runs in three starts and 11 frames. Early season comparisons to Roy Halladay have long since passed, but it seems as though Morton has straightened himself out after a rough patch.
Jul 19 2011Morton earned a victory Monday as the Pirates defeated the Reds, 2-0. He pitched five innings and allowed three hits, two walks and hit two batters to go along with three strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton earned his first win since June 15 Monday, although he failed to pitch deep into a game yet again. He has failed to pitch more than 5.2 innings in each of his last five starts. If he92s going to stay on the winning track, he92s going to have to start pitching deeper into games again.
Jul 7 2011Morton allowed four earned runs in 5.1 innings Wednesday, giving up eight hits and a walk while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He threw five scoreless innings before two errors and a misplayed line drive helped Houston to a five-run frame. Morton was credited with a 13:0 GB:FB ratio, but a liner to center field got past Andrew McCutchen for a gift triple by Carlos Lee. Morton looked better than his line, but that's of scant consolation to his fantasy owners.
Jul 2 2011Morton went 5.2 innings in his first start in almost two weeks Friday night against Washington, allowing one run on three hits and a two walks and earning a no decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton induced 10 ground balls against six fly balls. The strikeouts weren't there and you can't really ever expect them -- Morton has a 5.8 career K/9 -- but teams will struggle to score when he keeps the ball on the ground.
Jun 22 2011Morton (fatigue) will be skipped next time through the Pirates' rotation, Jenifer Langosch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: His next start was scheduled for Saturday against the Red Sox anyway, so it wasn't a particularly good matchup for him. Morton has actually increased his strikeout rate over the last four starts, but has been tagged for 32 hits in 18 innings during that span and has an 8.50 ERA to show for his efforts.
Jun 21 2011Morton suffered a loss Monday as the Pirates fell to the Orioles, 8-3. He pitched two innings and allowed seven runs (six earned), eight hits and one walk to go along with four strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has struggled to keep runners off base this season, allowing seven hits or more in eight starts so far. His WHIP now stands at 1.52 and although he is 7-4 this season, it92s going to be hard to keep winning at that pace if he doesn92t start to limit runners from reaching base.
Jun 16 2011Morton picked up his seventh win of the season Wednesday, allowing three runs on eight hits over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The win gives him a 7-3 record, not too shabby for a mediocre pitcher playing for an equally mediocre ball club. His 4.90 strikeouts-per-nine innings ratio still leaves much to be desired, however.
Jun 5 2011Morton allowed two runs over seven innings and was the winning pitcher Saturday against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He allowed six hits while walking two and striking out five. Morton has been very impressive this season, owning a record of 6-2 to go along with an ERA of 2.52. Morton is one of the key players responsible for the Pirates near .500 record this season as they continue to pitch well as a team.
May 30 2011Morton did not record a decision Monday as the Pirates lost to the Mets, 7-3. He pitched six innings and allowed three runs (one earned) and 11 hits to go along with four strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While the 11 hits Morton allowed Monday were discouraging, he did not walk a batter for the first time this season. He has a sparking 2.51 ERA this season, but his 1.37 WHIP has to be a concern. Unless he can start to limit the amount of base runners he is allowing, look for his ERA to start to rise.
May 26 2011Morton allowed two runs in seven innings on seven hits and three walks (one intentional) Tuesday. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He wasn't going to win the game unless he hit like Albert Pujols Jr., as the Pirates got shut out for the second straight game. Morton put up a 16:5 GO:FO ratio. The righthander starts two times next week, in New York against the Mets and at home versus the Phillies.
May 19 2011Morton (5-1) shut the Reds down Wednesday with a complete-game, five-hit shutout, snapping a six-game Pirates' losing streak. He walked two and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's season of dominating performances continues. He needed only 106 pitches (69 for strikes) to knock off the Reds, and compiled an excellent 15:4 GO:FO ratio in keeping with his re-birth. He's now won three straight starts and holds a 2.62 ERA through 55 innings.
May 18 2011Tuesday's game against the Nationals, which Morton was scheduled to start, has been postponed by rain, the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A makeup date will be announced in the coming days, with the Bucs slated to play in Cincinnati on Wednesday. Morton also had his scheduled start rained out last Thursday after pitching just two innings -- gone is his two-start week for Week 7.
May 13 2011Morton's washed-out start Thursday will count as his turn in the team's rotation, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Accordingly, Morton's next start will then come Tuesday in Washington. The righty gave up one run in two frames Thursday night before thunderstorms wiped out the rest of the contest.
May 9 2011Morton leads all major league starters with a 3.56 GO:FB ratio and his 62.2 ground ball percentage ranks third overall. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's throwing his sinking two-seam fastball 81.4 percent of the time with excellent results. Morton never threw a fastball more often than 65.2 percent prior to 2011. His 24:24 K:BB ratio needs work, but there's no denying he's become a difficult pitcher for hitters to square up his fastball against.
May 8 2011Morton allowed one run on seven hits over 7.2 innings and was the winning pitcher Saturday against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He struck out five while walking just one. Morton has pitched well for the Pirates this season, posting a 4-1 record with an ERA of 3.13. His biggest issue has been walks (he has already allowed 24 walks this season), so it was a good sign for Morton and his fantasy owners seeing him only allow the one walk Saturday.
May 2 2011Morton got the win Sunday against the Rockies despite allowing four runs and 12 baserunners over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This start was a nice contrast to his previous start, when Morton pitched well but didn't get the win. Morton stranded a ton of runners and got some key bullpen and run support to get the win this time.
Apr 26 2011Morton held the Giants to one run on four hits over six innings Tuesday, but he did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The bullpen blew this one for Morton, but the Pirates' offense did not give him much wiggle room to work with. He seems to have righted himself from some early-season control issues - he had a 3:10 K:BB in his first two starts but has gone 12:6 over his last two.
Apr 20 2011Morton looks to improve to 3-0 Wednesday as he starts against Ricky Nolasco and the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has allowed only 13 hits in 22 innings against the Cardinals, Rockies and Reds. His earned-run average (1.64) and WHIP (1.14) are far better than his career averages (5.63 ERA, 1.56 WHIP), but a change in his delivery during spring training has paid immediate dividends.
Apr 15 2011Morton beat the Reds with a complete-game, one-run effort in Cincinnati on Friday night. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton threw 81 of 108 pitches for strikes, lowering his earned run average to 1.64 and his WHIP to 1.14. Morton walked only two batters (and struck out three) after issuing five free passes in both of his first two starts. His new three-quarters arm slot continues to baffle batters. Right now he's the Pirates' best starting pitcher.
Apr 9 2011Morton allowed three runs -- two earned -- in seven innings and didn't factor in the decision against the Rockies on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton struggled with control in the game, walking five and striking out just one. He still only had two earned runs and gave the Pirates a chance to win. Morton's season ERA now sits at 2.08 but he has walked 10 in his two starts.
Apr 5 2011Despite walking five batters Monday, Morton threw 57 of 97 pitches for strikes in his six innings of one-run work, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The outing was his best since 2009. Morton's tweaked three-quarters release allows for more late movement on his pitches, as evidenced by a 15:1 GO:FO rate. It's only one start, but the differences in Morton from last year bode well for 2011.
Apr 4 2011Morton held the Cardinals to one run over six innings to get the win Monday night. He gave up only three hits, though he walked five while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This came on the heels of a good spring, following some mechanical tweaks. "I learned a lot from last year from going through a lot of bad outings, a lot of failure," Morton said. "I learned a lot mentally and then physically in spring training. We lowered my arm slot a little bit, trying to make me throw a little more natural. The ball is coming out a lot better, and it's going well so far." The five walks are still a concern, but at least for one night Morton is off on the right foot.
Mar 31 2011Morton closed out an impressive spring showing with five innings of one-hit, no-run ball in Philadelphia on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: His failures have been well documented. Morton has encorporated a sinker and tweaked his delivery in an effort to remain in Pittsburgh's starting rotation for 2011. A turnaround seems hard to imagine, but stranger things have happened.
Mar 25 2011Morton struggled Friday against a lineup with many Tampa Bay regulars in it, allowing five earned runs on five hits and three walks in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He hit Evan Longoria and walked Manny Ramirez with the bases loaded in his least effective outing of the spring. Morton has pitched well this spring, as he did a year ago, when he went on to compile the worst earned run average (7.57) of all major league starters. He's re-introduced a slider to his repertoire, but it's difficult recommending Morton for any reason other than he'll get another opportunity in 2011.
Mar 20 2011Morton solidified his spot in the starting rotation with six shutout innings against the Astros on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: GM Neal Huntington said Sunday afternoon that Morton figures to make the rotation because his main competition, Scott Olsen, isn't likely to be ready to start at the opening of the season. Morton earned his 7.47 ERA last year. If, by some chance, his improvement is real then he could turn into a waiver wire pickup at some point during 2011.
Mar 12 2011Morton remains the leader for the fifth starter's job, and that might move him to the fourth starter if James McDonald has to miss the beginning of the season, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton's competition for the fifth starter's job is Scott Olsen, who currently is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Olsen could be back shortly.
Mar 4 2011Morton started Thursday and threw three innings of one-run ball against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's doing everything right and is currently in the lead as the Bucs' No. 5 starter. His main competition, Scott Olsen, has yet to pitch in game action due to injury. Morton has attributed his improved early-spring performances to new pitching coach Ray Searage, but anyone who watched him throw in 2010 knows better than to trust Morton after one week of solid spring training pitching.
Nov 30 2010Morton will likely get a shot at the Pirates' 2011 rotation, according to GM Neal Huntington, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: "Charlie's late-season showing gives us confidence he should be in the mix to compete for a spot in our rotation," Huntington said. Following a late August recall, Morton compiled a 5.48 ERA and 24:10 K:BB ratio in 36.1 innings. For the year, Morton (2-12) finished with a 7.57 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and .332 OBA. He gave up three runs in 15 IP in the Winter Dominican League, with a 14:2 K:BB ratio. For Morton to be considered as a potential piece of the Pirates' starting rotation might reflect more upon the state of Pittsburgh's pitching staff than anything else.
Oct 3 2010Morton gave up two runs in six innings in the Pirates' loss to the Marlins on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton gave up four hits and a walk while striking out a career-high nine batters. He finished the season 2-12 with a 7.57 ERA, 1.73 WHIP, and a 59:26 K:BB ratio in 79.2 innings.
Sep 22 2010Morton held the Cardinals to two runs in six innings Wednesday and picked up his second win of the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has taken the kind of lumps you'd expect to see for a guy who has an 8.11 ERA and 1.82 WHIP. But even when he has pitched well the Pirates have not come to bat for him. Pittsburgh had lost his last eight starts before giving Morton 11 runs in support of Wednesday's win.
Sep 16 2010Morton went just five innings on Thursday, recording a no-decision against the Mets. Morton gave up two runs, five hits and four walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton still hasn't won since May 5, a span of eight starts. At least Morton has temporary job security - GM Neal Huntington recently said that Morton would stay in the rotation for the remainder of the year. His two most recent starts have both ended as no-decisions, which is actually a huge improvement, considering his 1-11 record in 2010.
Sep 6 2010Morton allowed only two earned runs on Sunday after working with catcher Chris Snyder. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Management switched catchers from Ryan Doumit in his last start to Snyder after Morton consistently shook off Doumit's signs to throw fastballs. Morton threw better against the Nationals, but is not worth the risk for fantasy owners. Prior to Sunday's contest, GM Neal Huntington said that Morton would stay in the starting rotation the rest of the season.
Sep 5 2010Morton gave up six runs over 3.2 innings on Sunday losing his 11th game in 12 starts this season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a repeat of seemingly every one of Morton's other starts this season; he has given up six or more runs in eight of his 12 starts.
Aug 31 2010Morton allowed seven earned runs in 3.1 innings Sunday afternoon. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his first big league outing in three months, Morton showed why the Pirates demoted him to Triple-A at the end of May. Morton inexplicably stopped throwing fastballs to the Brewers and they touched him up for nine hits and a walk. Until he learns to trust his stuff, it doesn't look like Morton will ever become a consistent major leaguer, let alone fantasy contributor. Morton is now 1-10 with a 10.03 ERA and 1.97 WHIP in 46.2 innings.
Aug 29 2010Morton has been called up to start for the Pirates on Sunday against the Brewers, reports Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton had an elbow discomfort scare earlier this month, but after missing a start, he returned to throw a scoreless six innings on August 23 with Triple-A Indianapolis. He appeared in 10 games earlier this season with the Pirates, and was hurt by the long ball, surrendering 12. If his luck evens out, he could approach a league average ERA.
Aug 19 2010Morton has been forced to miss his most recent turn in Triple-A Indianapolis's rotation after feeling some minor elbow discomfort, reports MLB Blogs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pirates' general manager Neal Huntington called the discomfort "very, very minor," which is good news, but it is also what team's usually say when the news first breaks. There's a chance Morton returns to the mound early next week, but there's also a small chance the elbow discomfort is more serious than the team is letting on, and will end what is turning out to be a bit of a lost season for Morton. Expect further updates on the situation.
Jul 2 2010The Pirates activated Morton (shoulder) from the disabled list Friday and optioned him to Triple-A Indianapolis, the team's official site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was hit hard in his last rehab outing, and even the Pirates' struggling rotation doesn't have room for him right now. He'll try to find some consistency at Triple-A.
Jun 30 2010The Pirates will not recall Morton (shoulder) to start in the four-game series against Philadelphia which begins on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton actually pitched at Triple-A on Tuesday. He got knocked around, allowing five runs (four earned) in 3.1 innings. Pittsburgh is searching for any semblance of consistency from its rotation and Morton doesn't fit the bill, even though GM Neal Huntington remains one of his biggest backers.
Jun 28 2010Morton (shoulder) is a candidate to start against the Phillies on Thursday, according to GM Neal Huntington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Speaking on his Sunday radio show, Huntington spoke glowingly of Morton's Triple-A start on Thursday and suggested he could rejoin the rotation. "We've got a July 1st start we've got to make a determination," Huntington said. The Pirates are without Zach Duke in the rotation and replacements such as Daniel McCutchen have proven to be nothing special.
Jun 26 2010The Pirates will likely recall Morton (shoulder) in the next week or so, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton allowed three baserunners in a complete game victory at Triple-A Indy on Thursday. "Charlie's last game, he threw very well," manager John Russell. "I was really pleased with Charlie's outing. We'll see how things shake out in the next week or so." Morton was quite possibly the worst starting pitcher in the majors for the first two months of the season. It will be interesting to see whether his time in the minors has reinvigorated him.
Jun 14 2010Morton (shoulder) gave up three runs in six innings Sunday night for Triple-A Indianapolis. He allowed seven hits and a walk while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Neither of his two rehab starts merit a recall to Pittsburgh any time soon, but the Pirates seem to give Morton more chances than other pitchers. As a result, it wouldn't be shocking to see him back in the majors sometime soon, even though an extended minor league stint might help him regain his confidence.
Jun 9 2010Morton (shoulder) was lit up at Triple-A on Tuesday, allowing five runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks in 3.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He threw 45 of 71 pitches for strikes and gave the Pirates little reason for a quick recall to Pittsburgh.
May 28 2010Morton has been placed on the 15-day DL with shoulder fatigue, Matt Fortuna of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Steven Jackson has been recalled to replace Morton, while the Pirates' starter for Tuesday's game against the Cubs is up in the air at this time. Morton has been hit hard all season, giving up 66 hits -- including 12 homers -- in 43.1 innings (10 starts). It's possible that he's been pitching hurt all along, but we'll await further information regarding the extent of his injury before speculating about a potential return to the rotation.
May 27 2010Morton was pounded for seven runs -- five earned -- and eight hits in just two innings at Cincinnati on Thursday. He issued three walks and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton got off to a rocky start, surrendering a pair of home runs in the first inning, and things never got any better. Morton has the backing of his manager, but with a 9.35 ERA and 1.89 WHIP, Morton is going to have to start producing at some point relatively soon if he wants to stick around this season.
May 23 2010Morton limited the Braves to three runs (two earned) in six innings Saturday night, allowing six hits and three walks while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton gave up two solo homers and needed 70 pitches the first three innings, but settled down the second half of his start. He chopped nearly a run off of his ERA (9.68 to 8.71) with the showing.
May 18 2010Pittsburgh has no intention of removing Morton from the starting rotation despite a 1-7 record, 9.68 ERA and 1.75 WHIP through eight starts, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: "We're still very confident that Charlie's going to be fine," manager John Russell said. "We've seen progress. I've said that he's not going to cruise through the season. He's going to have some bumps. And this was one of them." Morton's ERA is more than two runs higher than Boston's Josh Beckett's mark of 7.46, the second-worst mark in the majors.
May 17 2010Morton saw his record fall to 1-7 Monday as Pittsburgh lost to Philadelphia 12-2. He lasted only four innings and allowed six runs on six hits. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was showing some signs of life in his previous two starts in May, but saw his ERA increase to 9.68 with Monday92s outing. He has now allowed six runs or more in a start five times this season.
May 6 2010Morton held the Cubs to two runs on five hits over six innings of work on Wednesday to improve to 1-5 on the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton improved his ERA all the way down to 10.30 with this outing, so he's a long way away from being useful in fantasy.
Apr 30 2010Morton dropped to 0-5 on Friday after allowing six runs (three earned) over six innings against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was actually a positive for Morton, who struck out eight and walked two. Morton's ERA sits at 12.57. He won't finish 0-30, but it won't be for a lack of trying.
Apr 25 2010Morton turned in another poor performance on Sunday against the Astros, giving up five earned runs in just three innings. He struck out two and walked two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been one of the worst starters in the league in April, going 0-4 in his four starts. He has given up at least five runs in every outing and is averaging just 3.1 innings per start. The Pirates have been claiming his rotation spot is stable, but with these kind of results, sooner or later they will have to make a change.
Apr 21 2010It's unlikely that the Pirates will send Morton to Triple-A right now, even though he has an option remaining, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton needed 59 pitches to record three outs on Tuesday before manager John Russell had seen enough. "I didn't think he was as aggressive tonight, and he needs to get back to being aggressive and letting his stuff play," Russell said. "I still think Charlie's going to be just fine. He's got to find that glitch for him. He nibbled tonight, and it got him into trouble." Russell added that Morton's spot in the rotation is not in jeopardy, even though opponents are batting .433 against him.
Apr 20 2010Morton only lasted one inning against the Brewers Tuesday, surrendering six runs (five earned) on six hits and three walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He allowed three runs in an error-extended first inning, and a walk with the bases loaded ended his outing in the second inning. Morton has yet to win a start this season, and he now owns a 16.55 ERA and a 2.61 WHIP through 10.1 innings. He is unstartable in most fantasy formats.
Apr 14 2010Morton surrendered six runs on eight hits over six innings of work Wednesday against the Giants, falling to 0-2 to start the year. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was better than his first time out, when he allowed eight runs in 3.1 innings, but Morton allowed three Giants to hit their first home runs of the year.
Apr 9 2010Morton lasted just 3.1 innings Friday against Arizona, allowing eight earned runs on nine hits. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He started the night by breezing through the first two innings, striking out five of six batters with swinging strikes, before unraveling with a grand slam to Chris Young. Morton had a solid spring, but there are going to be nights like this now and then for the ex-Braves pitcher.
Mar 25 2010Morton allowed two homers and five runs in five innings against Atlanta Thursday afternoon. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Chances are he'll be up and down all season long. Morton, the team's No. 4 starter, likely has the best stuff in Pittsburgh. He'd be worth consideration of fantasy play during hot stretches, but not as an every start pitcher.
Mar 20 2010Morton strung together his second straight decent outing on Saturday, allowing two earned runs in 4.2 innings to the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a rough spring start, Morton has lowered his earned run average to 3.95, securing the No. 4 rotation spot.
Mar 14 2010Morton only gave up one hit in four innings in his spring training rematch against the Yankees, striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a nice bounce back outing for Morton, who struggled in his last start, also against the Yankees. He only walked one, and showed why he's capable of handling a spot in the back of the Pirates rotation.
Mar 9 2010Morton served up a pair of homers to Nick Johnson Tuesday, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks in three innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Well, at least he didn't walk three batters this time. To be fair, he was going up against the world champs. Morton's spot in the rotation is pretty clear cut, but a few more bad outings might have the Pirates looking elsewhere with Morton shifting to the pen.
Mar 5 2010Morton walked three of the 10 batters he faced on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been talked about as a possible breakout pitcher in Pittsburgh circles this spring. This was just his first outing, obviously, but he's not off to a good start. Morton is penciled in as the team's No. 4 starter. He went 5-9 with a 4.55 ERA and 62:40 K:BB ratio for the Bucs in 2009.
Oct 2 2009Morton hurled a complete-game shutout against the Cubs on Wednesday, striking out eight batters in a 4-0 win. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty, who gave up just four hits and three walks, had all four of his pitches working. Few could have predicted the outing, especially after he allowed 10 runs in one inning the last time he pitched in Wrigley Field. Morton's now had three straight decent starts and likely has a leg up on the competition for the team's No. 4 pitching spot in the 2010 rotation.
Sep 20 2009Morton threw seven solid innings on Friday, allowing one run on six hits and a walk to the Padres in a 5-1 win. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton, who struck out four, has strung together a pair of strong starts. His 2.76 ERA at home, versus 5.00 on the road, mirrors the Pirates' overall pattern. The team holds a 37-34 record at PNC Park and a 19-55 away mark.
Sep 12 2009Morton (3-8) pitched decently on Friday, giving up three runs in six innings on six hits and two walks against Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He battled after surrendering three runs in the first three innings, fielding his position well while keeping hitters like Carlos Lee off balance. Morton will be in the mix for a starting job in 2010, but he hasn't secured anything with his performance since coming over from Atlanta. Prior to Friday, Morton held a 5.43 ERA, 1.65 WHIP and a 44:32 K:BB ratio in 68 innings -- very similar to his numbers with the Braves a season ago.
Sep 6 2009Morton's next start has been pushed back to sometime in the weekend of Sept. 11-13, the Pirates' official site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Pirates are rolling with a six-man starting staff, allowing them to push Morton back a few days. No injury here.
Aug 28 2009Morton held the Phillies to two runs on five hits over six innings Thursday. He struck out six and walked four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He didn't help his WHIP out too much, but the six strikeouts tied his season high. Aside from one horrible thrashing at the hands of the Cubs, Morton has been a pretty decent starter for Pittsburgh.
Aug 22 2009Morton (3-6) helped to beat the Reds Friday night, limiting Cincinnati to two earned runs in 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton, who snapped a five-start winless streak, rebounded from a disastrous outing a week ago when the Cubs touched him up for 10 runs in one inning. Morton allowed six hits and three walks while striking out three Reds batters. He totaled 80 pitches, with 50 of those going for strikes.
Aug 15 2009Morton struggled a bit on Friday, allowing 10 earned runs in one inning against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He gave up seven hits and three walks on 49 pitches. Morton was asked what went wrong after the game. "Everything, everything went wrong," Morton told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I didn't do anything right. What happened today wasn't really ... I mean, I understand the things I need to do to be consistent from start to start. There was nothing to take from today. It was embarrassing."
Aug 10 2009Morton limited the Cardinals to one run in five innings Saturday, though he gave up seven hits and two walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton needed 93 pitches (including 58 strikes) to make it through five frames. He's thrown more than six innings just one time in his 10 starts due to his general lack of command.
Aug 5 2009Morton (2-4) allowed four earned runs on six hits and two walks Monday, throwing six innings against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton cruised threw five scoreless innings before Adam Dunn rocked him with a three-run opposite field dinger. While Morton hasn't pitched "lights out" baseball, neither has he gotten knocked around like he did in his first big league go-around with the Braves last year. He continues to nurse a hamstring which isn't 100 percent healthy. Morton now has a 4.03 ERA and 1.39 WHIP.
Jul 25 2009Morton allowed four earned runs on seven hits and two walks in 4.2 innings against Arizona Thursday night. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton needed 104 pitches (including 60 strikes) in a game in which he was unable to hold a 4-1 lead against All-Star Dan Haren. Thursday's outing was probably the type of showing that led Atlanta to include him in a trade package for Nate McLouth. Morton is still bothered by a hamstring injury, however, and it showed on Andrew McCutchen's double off the right-center fence -- Morton barely made it from first base to third.
Jul 19 2009Morton tossed seven shutout innings Saturday against the Giants to earn his second win of the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton was dominant all night, surrendering three hits and allowing just one runner to advance past first base.
Jul 9 2009Morton surrendered five runs in four innings against the Astros Wednesday afternoon, allowing 10 hits and a walk while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Houston hitters connected at a 10-for-21 clip off of Morton while adding four two-out RBI against him. The righthander threw 49 of his 84 pitches for strikes in his worst outing as a Pirate.
Jul 4 2009Morton threw six shutout innings against the Marlins Friday to pick up his first win of the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Fish only managed one hit (a Jeremy Hermida singled in the fifth), but he issued four walks (to four strikeouts). Only 51 of his 91 pitches went for strikes, but he was able to draw eight grounders to six fly balls. This was his first win with Pittsburgh.
Jun 30 2009Morton gave up three runs on seven hits in five innings Sunday afternoon against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He needed 87 pitches, including 55 strikes, to complete his five frames. Morton's velocity was down from 95 mph in his last start to around 93, but he made it through the game without aggravating his left hamstring. He didn't walk a batter while striking out three.
Jun 28 2009The Pirates confirmed that Morton (hamstring), who completed a 20-pitch side session Friday, will start against Kansas City on Sunday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: "I felt fine. I feel good," Morton said of his strained left hamstring. "I'm anxious." Manager John Russell continues be effusive in his praise of the unproven Morton. "He still feels it a little bit but he's very adamant about pitching," Russell said. "He felt it at Colorado last week. He pitched five innings against the hottest team in the world and only gave up two runs. So it's going to be kind of scary to see him when he's 100 percent."
Jun 27 2009Morton (hamstring) will start on Sunday against the Royals, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's starting in the recently departed Ian Snell's spot. Morton has been dealing with a high hamstring issue. He believes he's better, but a setback in this area could put him out of action for an extended period. Morton will be going against the Royals' Zack Greinke Sunday afternoon.
Jun 26 2009Morton (hamstring) is likely to miss his scheduled start on Friday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton says that he's feeling fine, but manager John Russell wants to take things slow with his pitcher. "It's high in the hamstring, so it's going to take some time to heal," Russell said. "We have to be careful." Either Jeff Karstens will come out of the bullpen for a start, or the team will recall Virgil Vazquez from Triple-A.
Jun 24 2009Morton (hamstring) is still not feeling 100 percent and could miss his start on Friday, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton is dealing with some lingering soreness in his left hamstring. Triple-A starter Virgil Vazquez was lifty early Tuesday night so that he could be available to start for the Bucs on Friday if Morton can't go.
Jun 22 2009Pirates GM Neal Huntington said on Sunday that Morton (hamstring) is still "not fully 100 percent." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The team will see how Morton feels after he goes through a side session before deciding whether it needs to adjust its rotation. Huntington did say that nothing indicates that Morton won't be able to go in his next scheduled start on Friday, at least at this point.
Jun 21 2009Morton (hamstring) held the Rockies to two runs on five hits in five innings but came away with a no-decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He did not allow a home run in his first career game at Coors Field. He threw 88 pitches, 55 for strikes. He struck out four and walked two.
Jun 15 2009Morton (hamstring) will miss his Tuesday start, the Pirates' official site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager John Russell said that Morton could pitch Tuesday if it was absolutely necessary, but he would rather be cautious. Paul Maholm will get pushed up to Tuesday to take Morton's place. Morton will next pitch on Saturday.
Jun 14 2009Morton (hamstring) probably won't make his scheduled start on Tuesday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The most likely current scenario has the team moving Morton back a day to Wednesday with Paul Maholm moving up to Tuesday.
Jun 12 2009Morton still felt some minor discomfort in his hamstring on Thursday after leaving Wednesday's start, the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton is still hopeful that he'll be able to start on Tuesday against the Twins. We'll know more after his throw day.
Jun 11 2009Morton left his start on Wednesday night after one inning because of tightness in his hamstring. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: No word yet if he'll require a stint on the DL, but the Pirates may be able to avoid that with Morton by taking the cautious approach and giving him the early hook in his debut Wednesday.
Jun 10 2009Morton will be promoted in time to start for the Pirates Wednesday night against his old team, the Braves, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has a 7-2 record at the Triple-A level this season, compiling a 2.26 ERA and a WHIP just over 1.00. In 16 games with Atlanta last year, Morton struggled to a 6.15 ERA and 1.62 WHIP over 16 appearances. He has a chance to slide right into the Pittsburgh rotation with a good effort on Wednesday.
Jun 3 2009Morton was dealt along with Gorkys Hernandez and Jeff Locke to Pittsburgh for Nate McLouth. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has pitched well for Triple-A Gwinnett, going 7-2 with a 2.51 ERA, 1.052 ERA and 55:16 K:BB ratio in 64.2 innings. Look for him to be promoted soon and get a shot in the Pirates rotation.
Mar 25 2009Morton gave up two runs in one inning in Wednesday's loss to Washington. It was his first appearance in a spring training game since straining an oblique muscle on Feb. 23. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton will begin the season at Triple-A and may open the season on the DL there as he builds up his stamina.
Mar 5 2009Morton (oblique) still has not been cleared to resume throwing, the team's official web site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's been out since Feb. 23 since straining a muscle in his side. He was a long shot to make the major league roster, so this setback likely clinches that he'll open the season at Triple-A Richmond.
Feb 24 2009Morton won't throw for a week after straining an oblique muscle. "Got to shut it down five, six, seven days. I don't think it92s really bad," the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Oblique injuries tend to linger so we have a feeling he'll be out more than a week. He was going to have a hard time making the major league pitching staff, so this injury comes at a bad time. He'll likely start the season at Triple-A Richmond.
Feb 23 2009Morton strained a side muscle during a throwing session on Monday, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: No word yet if Morton will miss his first spring start. However, any injury in spring training isn't good news as he's going to have a hard time making the major league staff. He'll mostly likely start the season in the Triple-A rotation.
Sep 21 2008Morton (back/rib) threw two scoreless innings in relief in Sunday's win over the Mets with three strikeouts and one walk. It was his first appearance since Sept. 2. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a surprise to see Morton since it was thought he was shut down for the season. Hopefully this is a sign the injury won't be a problem for 2009.
Sep 5 2008The Braves are going to shut down Morton for at least 10 days due a persistently sore back, the Braves' official site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The pain is occuring between his right shoulder blade and rib cage, and has been bothering him for about two months. "It doesn't keep me from throwing a ball," Morton said. "It just keeps me from throwing a ball without pain."
Sep 3 2008Morton gave up seven runs (four earned) over 3.1 innings with three walks and two strikeouts, but got a no-decision in Tuesday's 16-14 win over Florida. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a high-scoring game, but Morton continues a pattern of struggling in the majors. He should stay in the rotation the rest of the season as the Braves look toward 2009, but he should be avoided in fantasy leagues until he shows some signs of success.
Aug 31 2008Morton was recalled from Triple-A Richmond. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll remain in the rotation and start on Tuesday. He was sent down on Friday to clear space on the 25-man roster and never actually went to Richmond.
Aug 7 2008Morton threw seven scoreless innings in Thursday's win over Arizona. He gave up five hits with four strikeouts and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton may finally be getting into a groove at the major league level as he's given up just two runs over 14 innings in his last two starts. He should stick in the rotation the rest of the season as the Braves look toward 2009.
Aug 2 2008Morton pitched well against the Brewers on Saturday, but he was outdueled by C.C. Sabathia while falling to 2-5 on the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Other than a solo homer to Prince Fielder, Morton was very sharp with his location as he held Milwaukee to two runs on four hits while striking out four and walking just one. The Braves are playing for the future the rest of the way, so look for Morton to continue receiving chances in their rotation over the final two months.
Jul 29 2008Morton was pounded for eight runs over 3.2 innings against the Cardinals on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't an easy assignment, since Morton was recalled at the last minute Monday, but that doesn't excuse such a poor outing. He gave up seven hits, walked four and struck out just one. Morton has excelled in Triple-A this season, but he now has a 7.26 ERA in the big leagues.
Jul 27 2008Morton is likely to be recalled from Triple-A Richmond and start Monday's game against St. Louis, the team's official web site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jo-Jo Reyes was set to start Monday but was used in relief on Sunday. Reyes struggled again, so Morton could take his place in the rotation with a strong outing. Since he was sent to Triple-A on Saturday, the Braves will need to place someone on the DL in order to bring him back within seven days of his demotion. That could be a sign Chipper Jones is headed for the DL.
Jul 26 2008Morton was sent back to Triple-A Richmond on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Braves needed to make space on the roster for the return of Mike Hampton, but with his injury history paired with Tim Hudson's sore elbow, Morton could be back in Atlanta before too long if injuries create a space for him again.
Jul 26 2008Morton has likely lost his spot in the rotation with Mike Hampton set to start Saturday and Jo-Jo Reyes set to start Monday in place of Morton, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not entirely clear if Morton or Jo-Jo Reyes will lose a spot in the rotation to Hampton, but the Braves may wait a few days to make a decision to see if Hampton can make it through a start without injury and with Tim Hudson having a sore elbow.
Jul 22 2008Morton allowed four runs on two hits in 5.2 innings in Tuesday's loss to the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton really had a good start, but gave up an inopportune homer to Mike Jacobs. He walked four, but he may have turned a corner after getting nine days of rest due to the All-Star break.
Jul 13 2008Morton got the win on Saturday night, holding the Padres to one run over 5.1 innings. He gave up four hits and three walks, while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Be careful not to draw too many conclusions from this start. Morton is still currently slated to lose his rotation slot to Mike Hampton after the break.
Jul 11 2008Morton is likely to be replaced in the Atlanta rotation by Mike Hampton after the All-Star break, the team's official web site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hampton will make a last minor league rehab start on Wednesday, so he'll be ready to join Atlanta after the All-Star Game. Morton has given up 11 earned runs over his last 11 innings, so he'll need a strong outing on Saturday to keep his spot in the majors.
Jul 6 2008Morton gave up six runs over six innings with two strikeouts and two walks, but got a no-decision in Sunday's win over Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been hit hard his last two starts with 11 earned runs over 11 innings. He'll need to turn it around quickly or could lose his spot in the rotation if Mike Hampton can return from the DL after the All-Star break.
Jul 1 2008Morton gave up five runs and lasted just two innings with one strikeout and one walk in Tuesday's loss to Philadelphia. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After three decent starts, Morton had his first bad outing. Expect some ups and downs as the rookie gets used to the majors. His minor league strikeout numbers show he can succeed in the majors, but it may take awhile.
Jun 24 2008Morton gave up four runs (two earned) over six innings in Tuesday's loss to Milwaukee. He struck out four batters with one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He didn't get much help from his defense as the Braves made three errors in the first inning. His control was much better after walking four batters in his last outing.
Jun 20 2008Morton gave up three runs over five innings with three strikeouts and four walks, but got a no-decision in Thursday's loss to Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton followed up his good debut with a decent outing in a tough ballpark, but the four walks are a concern. Still, he's someone to grab in NL-only leagues and keeper leagues.
Jun 14 2008In his major league debut, Morton picked up the win against the Angels on Saturday by giving up three run on five hits over six innings of work. He struck out four and walked one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton wasn't spectacular but was good enough to get the win. He looks to have big league control to go with a good strikeout rate. Get him while you can.
Jun 11 2008Morton is likely to be recalled from Triple-A Richmond and start Saturday against the Angels. "I think it's more than likely [going to be Morton]," GM Frank Wren told the team's official web site. "But we haven't made a decision." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton has been on fire at Triple-A Richmond and is 4-2 with a 2.14 ERA and 61:21 K:BB ratio in his last 63 innings, and struck out 13 batters in eight innings two starts ago. He's someone to grab in keeper leagues.
May 11 2008Morton may be recalled from Triple-A Richmond to start Friday against Oakland, the team's official web site. reports. He has a 1.76 ERA with a 32:13 K:BB ratio in 41 innings at Richmond. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 2002 third-round pick hasn't had much of a minor league career, but came on strong in the Arizona Fall League and has followed that with a strong showing in spring training and then at Triple-A. With the Atlanta rotation in flux, he has a chance to stick in the majors with a strong start or two.
Jun 11 2003Morton surrendered six earned runs in four innings Friday, allowing nine hits and a walk. He hit a batter and struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Morton revisited the struggles he had against the Mets on Memorial Day, when he allowed 11 hits. The team had a reliever warming up in the first inning before Morton had even allowed a run. His velocity was there and he featured his typical extreme groundball to flyball ratio (12:1), so it looks like he just pitched poorly and isn't injured, but it's something to keep an eye on going forward. Morton's ERA jumped more than half a run Friday (3.05 from 2.52).