Orioles Edge Braves 3-2 in Pitchers' Duel Between Morton and Strider

The Atlanta Battery skyline was a familiar sight for Charlie Morton, who returned to the city Friday night with the Baltimore Orioles to face his former team. The right-hander had spent the previous four seasons with the Braves, including their 2021 World Series championship run. This time, however, he was on the mound for the Orioles, delivering a standout performance that led Baltimore to a thrilling 3-2 victory.

Jordan Westburg made his return to the lineup after missing five games due to a finger sprain, and his presence was immediately felt. Fresh off the injury list, Westburg went 3-for-5 with an opposite-field home run in the third inning off Braves ace Spencer Strider. Cedric Mullins added to the offensive output with a two-run blast in the fifth, marking his team-leading 13th homer of the season. The 391-foot shot landed just in front of the “Chop House” mezzanine bar and restaurant, giving the Orioles (38-49) the edge they needed.

Morton, now 41, looked energized facing his former teammates. He struck out seven batters and generated a season-high 19 whiffs, showcasing both his fastball and signature curveball at peak levels. His fastball reached 97 mph at one point—his third-fastest pitch of the season—while one of his curveballs registered a staggering 3,459 rotations per minute, the highest spin rate of his career in the Statcast era (since 2015).

Despite carrying a shutout into the sixth inning, Morton’s outing was slightly marred by a two-run home run from Braves catcher Drake Baldwin. Still, he managed to keep the game within reach, allowing just two runs over 5 1/3 innings. Since rejoining the Orioles’ rotation on May 26, Morton has been dominant, posting a 2.97 ERA across seven starts.

The bullpen picked up where Morton left off, tossing 3 2/3 scoreless innings to seal the win. Andrew Kittredge was particularly efficient, needing only 12 pitches to record five outs. He induced a double play to end the sixth before retiring the side in order during the seventh. Bryan Baker followed with a perfect eighth inning, and closer Félix Bautista secured his 17th save of the year, wrapping up the tight contest.

Tyler O’Neill also made his long-awaited return to the Orioles’ roster after missing 43 games due to a left shoulder impingement. Serving as the designated hitter, O’Neill contributed with a 1-for-3 performance, adding a walk and a run scored. His presence gives Baltimore another veteran bat in the lineup as the team looks to push through a crucial stretch of the season.

Westburg’s return was a bright spot for the Orioles. Though he isn’t expected to be fully healthy anytime soon, his three-hit game and opposite-field homer proved he can still contribute despite nagging injuries. Westburg has battled multiple ailments this season, including two separate finger injuries from sliding into second base in recent weeks. After missing much of last season with a broken hand, there are concerns about his durability moving forward. Yet, his determination to stay on the field speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the team.

Looking ahead, the Orioles will aim for a series win Saturday behind Dean Kremer, who is coming off one of his best outings of the season—a seven-inning shutout against the Tampa Bay Rays. Atlanta’s rotation has been hit hard by injuries, and the Braves are even considering a bullpen game for the next matchup, presenting a golden opportunity for Baltimore to gain ground.