This winter’s offseason will be challenging for the Atlanta Braves, particularly for their starting pitching rotation. Spencer Strider, the team’s ace, is currently recuperating from Tommy John surgery from the previous campaign. Atlanta is also keeping an eye on veteran righty Charlie Morton and left-handed pitcher Max Fried as they enter free agency.

The Braves haven’t made a big deal out of bringing Morton back yet, but they’re probably going to be quite aggressive in getting Fried back.

However, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com thinks Morton will return to Atlanta in 2025, pointing to the Braves’ alleged incapacity to bring Fried back as a major factor in their decision to re-sign Morton.

Max Fried seems likely to move on from Atlanta, but the 41-year-old Morton doesn’t seem ready to retire, setting up a return to the Braves,” Feinsand said. “Atlanta’s top three players are Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, and Spencer Schwellenbach; however, due to Tommy John surgery last year, Spencer Strider will not be ready to start the season. Gryphon Canning, who was just acquired, will also be included in the rotation.

It’s not a bad idea for Atlanta to bring Morton back. He earned his place in the rotation for 2025 by throwing 165.1 innings with a 4.19 ERA the previous season. During his 139 career starts with the Braves, the veteran has a 4.09 ERA.

According to Spotrac, Morton will get a $17 million one-year contract for the upcoming season. He might be available to the Braves at a slight discount, but they shouldn’t mind paying this for another thirty starts of reliable play.