Orioles Lose Key Reliever Dillon Tate to Blue Jays Amid Struggles in the Bullpen
The Baltimore Orioles have encountered a significant setback as their bullpen woes continue to mount. The team recently designated relievers Dillon Tate and Nick Vespi for assignment, a move that has now cost them a former reliable asset. While Vespi cleared waivers and remains with the organization, the Toronto Blue Jays swooped in to claim Tate, a pitcher who has been a crucial part of the Orioles’ bullpen in recent years.
Dillon Tate, who had a career 4.07 ERA over 212 innings with Baltimore, has seen his performance decline recently due to persistent elbow issues. Despite these struggles, Tate continued to demonstrate potential, particularly in limiting hard contact and maintaining low barrel rates, metrics that often suggest a pitcher can bounce back. His strikeout rate, however, plummeted to a career-low 15.5% in 2024, underscoring the challenges he faced this season.
The loss of Tate is particularly concerning for the Orioles as their bullpen has been a consistent weak point throughout the season, especially after the All-Star break. The inconsistency has been glaring, with even veteran closer Craig Kimbrel showing signs of vulnerability in recent outings. Analysts have pointed out that Tate’s ability to limit damage, despite his recent decline, could have been valuable for a bullpen struggling to find its footing.
The decision to designate Tate for assignment is being scrutinized, with some questioning the wisdom of letting go of a pitcher who, despite his recent difficulties, still possesses attributes that could stabilize an unreliable bullpen. The Orioles’ management may need to reconsider their bullpen strategy as they navigate the remainder of the season, with playoff hopes still on the line.
As the Orioles grapple with these roster changes, the urgency to develop or acquire consistent pitching options is growing. With Tate now wearing a Blue Jays uniform, the pressure is on Baltimore to find solutions that can bring stability to a bullpen that has been anything but reliable.
