In 2018, the Baltimore Orioles landed an elite talent when they sent Zack Britton to the New York Yankees.
Dillon Tate was the fourth overall draft pick in 2014 by the Texas Rangers. By 2016 he was ranked as the 36th best player in the minors according to MLB Pipeline.
The right-handed reliever made his debut with the Orioles in 2019 after converting from a starter to a bullpen option.
He posted a disappointing 6.43 ERA across 16 appearances that season, however, Tate has been above-average the past three years posting an ERA+ over 100.
He was coming off a resurgent 2022 season that saw him record in ERA of 3.05 across 67 appearances and 73 2/3 innings pitched.
But, that was the last time Tate pitched in a Major League game.
He suffered a forearm/flexor strain in 2023 that put him on the injured list. During his rehab assignment, he suffered a stress reaction in his right elbow/forearm that caused him to miss more time, and ultimately the entire season.
The righty will be ready to go in camp as pitchers and catchers report for Spring Training.
“Just saw Tate a couple days ago in Sarasota. Looks unbelievable, feels great,” manager Brandon Hyde said.
