#134 Carl Morton

Big Red....ginger haired converted outfielder turned starter....listed in the 1966 Sporting News Register as a position player....Although Morton was on the inaugural Montreal squad and pitched a gem in his first MLB game,  the fourth in franchise history; a scoreless nine inning outing against the Cubs...despite this effort needed more seasoning.... returns in 1970 accumulated decisions in his favor 18 times...Part of a 21 win improvement by the Sophomore Expos...Had an incredible streak of going 7-1 mid summer....Takes the NL ROY award....had underwhelming follow up seasons in 1971 and 1972 but Morton did not lose his starter status....included in deal with the Braves organization for 1973...it was a return to the franchise that first signed him....a positive move for the Braves and Carl teaming with Phil Niekro to provide steady pitching in a highly inconsistent team....won 15, 16, and 17 games in successive campaigns...only won 4 in his final year 1976....traded to Texas but did not get out of training camp....ended in Phillies AAA squad for his final year in organized ball, a natural fit for the Oklahoma native....Died at the tragic age of 39, in his hometown of Tulsa Oklahoma....convinced to switch to pitching by Paul Richards....good move.