Blue Jays Sign Veteran Reliever to Strengthen Bullpen Depth

The Toronto Blue Jays have taken swift action to bolster their bullpen after an untimely injury to one of their key relievers.

With Erik Swanson facing uncertainty due to elbow discomfort, the franchise has signed Dillon Tate to a major league deal.

This move not only highlights the team’s proactive approach to depth but also raises questions about Swanson’s long-term health as Opening Day inches closer.

Here’s what Blue Jays fans need to know about Tate’s addition, Swanson’s setback, and what lies ahead for Toronto’s relief corps.

Dillon Tate Returns to Toronto: A Familiar Face Joins the Roster

Dillon Tate is no stranger to Blue Jays fans.

The right-handed reliever briefly suited up for Toronto last season, making four appearances following a waiver claim from the Baltimore Orioles.

While his time with the team was short-lived, his prior pedigree and flashes of potential have kept him on the radar.

Originally a fourth overall pick in the 2015 MLB Draft by the Texas Rangers, Tate was once a highly-touted prospect with raw arm talent.

The 29-year-old spent much of his professional career bouncing between organizations, eventually finding some footing with the Orioles in 2018.

His most productive MLB campaign came in 2022, when he delivered a stellar 3.05 ERA over 73 2/3 innings with Baltimore.

Despite this success, Tate’s career was derailed by injuries, and he missed the entirety of the 2023 season due to a forearm and flexor strain.

Even so, his track record suggests he has the tools to be a quality bullpen arm if healthy.

Contract Details and Team Implications

While financial terms of Tate’s deal were not disclosed, they are expected to come in under the $1.4 million he would have earned had the Blue Jays tendered him a contract previously.

One key aspect of his signing is the flexibility he offers: Tate still has one minor league option remaining.

This gives Toronto the ability to adjust his role and roster placement as needed without worrying about immediate commitment to the major league level.

The timing of Tate’s return appears to signal Toronto’s concern over Swanson’s recovery.

With Swanson sidelined and scheduled to consult with Dr. Keith Meister—a leading specialist for elbow injuries—there is growing speculation about the potential severity of his injury.

Meister consultations often precede Tommy John surgery, a worst-case scenario that could sideline Swanson for a significant period.

Erik Swanson’s Injury: A Setback with Widespread Impact

Swanson’s elbow discomfort is a blow to a Blue Jays bullpen that relied heavily on his consistency in 2023.

Acquired from the Mariners, Swanson made an immediate impact in Toronto’s relief corps, filling high-leverage innings with poise and efficiency.

His absence, even for a short time, leaves a noticeable gap that must be addressed before Opening Day.

More Bullpen Moves on the Horizon?

The addition of Dillon Tate may not be the final move for Toronto’s front office.

With at least two bullpen spots up for grabs, the Blue Jays are likely to explore additional pitching options as both free agency and the trade market remain open.

The club’s depth strategy has been a hallmark of its roster-building philosophy in recent years, and given the uncertainty surrounding Swanson’s availability, reinforcements seem prudent.

Additionally, Tate’s signing reflects a growing emphasis on flexibility and insurance arms as the team navigates the early part of the season.

With minor league options and a relatively low cost, Tate could serve as a bridge until Swanson or other relievers become fully available.

It also wouldn’t be a surprise to see Toronto take a closer look at internal options during Spring Training or remaining unsigned veterans in the coming weeks.

The Bigger Picture: Toronto’s Search for Bullpen Stability

Strong bullpens win games, and Toronto knows all too well the importance of maintaining a reliable group of relievers over the grueling 162-game season.

Dillon Tate’s signing represents a calculated risk—one fueled by need but padded with upside. If he can recover the form he displayed in 2022, Tate could be a vital piece not only early in the season but as the Blue Jays aim for a deep postseason run.

For now, Toronto’s success hinges on two things: the health of their core bullpen arms and the front office’s ability to identify and acquire depth pieces.

As Erik Swanson awaits further medical opinions, the Blue Jays have no choice but to prepare for all contingencies. Tate’s signing is just the first step in what could be an active roster adjustment period leading up to Opening Day.

Keep an eye on Toronto’s bullpen news—it’s shaping up to be one of the key storylines as Spring Training unfolds.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Blue Jays ink familiar reliever to major league contract