MLB Rumors: AL East Veteran Emerging As ‘Legitimate Trade Candidate’

The Red Sox have an uphill climb in the American League East. In fourth place, they’re only ahead of the Baltimore Orioles near the 2025 season’s midway point.

Two years removed from a 101-win campaign, the Orioles have endured a disappointing 34-46 start. Barring a quick recovery, the Orioles seem poised to treat the trade deadline as sellers and regroup for 2026.

That could mean shopping Cedric Mullins, Ryan O’Hearn, Ramon Laureano, Zach Eflin and Felix Bautista. They have another veteran salvaging some trade value after a brutal start, as The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal called Charlie Morton a “legitimate trade candidate.”

Receiving anything for Morton would have seemed far-fetched two months ago. The 41-year-old lost his rotation spot after allowing 25 runs in five dreadful starts spanning 24 1/3 innings. Boston tagged him for five runs April 3.

After improving in the bullpen, Morton received another chance. He’s posted a 2.88 ERA in five starts this month, tallying 32 strikeouts to eight walks in 25 frames.

Morton didn’t truly find his stride until reinventing himself with the Houston Astros in 2017. The right-hander has since recorded a 3.75 ERA, 10.3 K/9 and the 12th-highest WAR among all pitchers. He made at least 30 starts in six straight seasons (excluding the 60-game 2020) before joining Baltimore on a one-year, $15 million pact last offseason.

While his current 5.63 ERA and 1.57 WHIP don’t indicate an impact add, Morton could help a contender if he maintains his current form. Even pitching to his 4.13 xERA, in line with last year’s actual 4.19 ERA, would give a playoff candidate a useful piece for the stretch run.

Teams may closely monitor Morton’s next outings. He’s currently in line to face the Texas Rangers and New York Mets before the All-Star break.