Morton Signs With Braves; Seabold, Ragsdale DFA'd

Charlie Morton, 41, signed a short-term major-league deal with the Atlanta Braves after being designated for assignment and released by the Detroit Tigers. The Braves said the move is largely ceremonial and gives the longtime Brave—who helped anchor Atlanta's 2021 World Series run—a chance to retire with the franchise, though it remains unclear whether he will pitch in the team's final week. Atlanta cleared roster space by designating right-handers Connor Seabold and Carson Ragsdale for assignment, claiming Joel Payamps off waivers and optioning Jhancarlos Lara to Triple-A; Payamps could be a bullpen option next season. Morton struggled in Detroit after the trade deadline, posting a 7.09 ERA across nine starts (39 1/3 innings) with 47 strikeouts and 23 walks, prompting the Tigers to DFA him and select reliever Tanner Rainey. Braves manager Brian Snitker said there was no firm plan for Morton's role until the club meets with him.