Baltimore Orioles Move Struggling Starter Charlie Morton to Bullpen Amid Criticism
The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant adjustment to their starting rotation, moving veteran Charlie Morton to the bullpen after his underwhelming performances.
The team’s handling of the rotation during the offseason faced criticism, especially after losing their ace, Corbin Burnes, to free agency. Instead of pursuing another top-tier ace, the Orioles opted for a depth-focused approach, adding several pitchers to bolster the rotation. One of their key signings was veteran Charlie Morton, who agreed to a one-year, $15 million deal to provide support behind Grayson Rodriguez and Zach Eflin.
However, with both Rodriguez and Eflin landing on the injured list, Morton, along with fellow free agent Tomoyuki Sugano, was thrust into larger roles than expected. While Sugano has been a success after his move from Japan, Morton has struggled mightily. The 41-year-old has posted a disappointing 9.45 ERA across 26.2 innings, with 28 earned runs and 21 walks, leading the majors in both categories. His struggles prompted manager Brandon Hyde to make a change, as reported by Andy Kostka of the Baltimore Banner.
In the short term, Brandon Hyde said he expects the Orioles to use Charlie Morton out of the bullpen, as he was used last night. They haven’t closed the door on him starting games in the future, but short spurts could help Morton stabilize
— Andy Kostka (@afkostka) April 30, 2025
Morton will now pitch out of the bullpen, a role he began in during Tuesday’s game against the New York Yankees. The Orioles’ rotation has also been impacted by another offseason addition, Kyle Gibson, who made his debut but lasted only 3.2 innings, surrendering five home runs and nine earned runs. Morton was used as a relief option behind Gibson, throwing 2.1 innings and allowing just one unearned run.
While Hyde noted that Morton could return to the starting rotation in the future, for now, the team believes his best option is to work in shorter outings to regain form. It remains to be seen who will take Morton’s place in the starting lineup, especially after he was used as a bulk innings pitcher behind reliever Keegan Akin on April 26—an early indication that a shift in his role was likely.
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