The New York Mets have been dealt a significant blow with the season-ending injury to starting pitcher Griffin Canning, who ruptured his Achilles tendon. Losing a key rotation arm like Canning has left a noticeable void in the Mets’ pitching staff, and the team may now be compelled to explore the trade market in hopes of reinforcing their rotation. According to FanSided’s Christopher Kline, one intriguing and unexpected trade candidate for the Mets could be Baltimore Orioles veteran pitcher Charlie Morton.
Although Morton’s overall season numbers paint a troubling picture — including a 5.63 ERA and a 1.57 WHIP — there have been signs of improvement in recent outings. Over his last six starts, the 41-year-old has posted a much more encouraging 2.88 ERA along with 32 strikeouts in just 25 innings. These performances resemble the Morton that fans have come to know throughout his lengthy and productive MLB career. While age-related decline was always a possibility at this stage in his career, Morton has historically provided reliability and postseason poise, serving as a steadying presence on contending teams like the Atlanta Braves.
His struggles earlier this year with Baltimore came as a surprise to many, but his recent bounce-back could signal a potential resurgence — and an opportunity for the Mets to take advantage. Kline notes that Morton’s affordable contract, which is set to expire at the end of the season, makes him a low-risk acquisition for New York. He may not be the type of pitcher to lead a rotation, but he could certainly help stabilize the Mets’ current patchwork group of starters. Filling Canning’s role in the middle of the rotation would bring much-needed depth and consistency, especially for a team trying to remain competitive.
There’s no denying that acquiring Morton carries its share of risks. His age and inconsistent performances earlier in the season are legitimate concerns. However, if the Orioles are open to moving him for a minimal return, the Mets could seize the chance to make a low-cost move with potential upside. In a worst-case scenario, Morton could be shifted to a bullpen role, just as Baltimore used him earlier this year. While this wouldn’t be considered a blockbuster trade by any stretch, adding Morton could still be a valuable strategic move that helps solidify the Mets’ pitching corps during a critical point in the season.
