Tate's major league career was encapsulated in a single season with the New York Mets. In 1975, he was called up to join the Mets' pitching rotation. During that season, he made 26 starts and appeared in 28 games. His rookie year was marked by a mix of promise and challenges, as he navigated the ups and downs typical of a young pitcher finding his footing in the big leagues.
One of the highlights of Tate's season came on August 4, 1975, when he nearly achieved a no-hitter against the Montreal Expos. For eight innings, Tate held the Expos hitless, showcasing his potential to dominate on the mound. However, in the ninth inning, the no-hit bid was broken up, and Tate ultimately did not secure the win. Despite the outcome, this performance remains a standout moment in his career, demonstrating his ability to compete at a high level.
Throughout the 1975 season, Tate posted a win-loss record of 5-13, with an earned run average (ERA) of 4.45. He struck out 99 batters over 137 innings pitched. While these statistics reflect the challenges he faced, they also highlight his perseverance in a demanding role. The Mets, during this period, were a team in transition, and Tate's efforts on the mound were part of their rebuilding process.
After the 1975 season, Tate's time in the major leagues came to an end. He was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates in December of that year, but he never appeared in a major league game for them. Instead, he continued to play in the minor leagues for a few more seasons before retiring from professional baseball.
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