Houston Dynamo 2024 player report cards: Tate Schmitt
(image via Matt Patterson/Associated Press)
We’re continuing our 2024 report card series, recapping each Dynamo and Dash player’s season. Today we look at Tate Schmitt.
2024 Grade: B-
2024 by the numbers (MLS play)
Appearances: 16
Minutes played: 435
Goals: 0
Assists: 0
G+ per 96: -0.03
2024 in review
As Houston entered 2024 competing in four different competitions, the depth of the squad became a key priority for the decision-makers. Tate Schmitt, with his ability to play multiple positions on the left side of the field, was an ideal player to provide that depth. Tate appeared in three of the four competitions this year: the CONCACAF Champions Cup, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, and MLS. When minutes were hard to come by in the first team, he also played a significant amount of time in MLS NEXT Pro to maintain his fitness and be ready to step in whenever called upon by Ben Olsen.
The season began well for Tate Schmitt, as he was able to accumulate a good number of minutes due to an injury that kept Franco Escobar sidelined. Once Escobar fully recovered, Schmitt’s playing time was reduced, and he struggled to get consistent minutes until May, when he was given a few starts. His performances were decent but not enough to secure a permanent starting spot, which led to him returning to a bench role. Fortunately, MLS NEXT Pro provided an opportunity for first-team players like Schmitt to stay sharp and contribute, ensuring he remained match-fit and ready for future call-ups.
Reflecting on Schmitt’s appearances, I was reminded of Sam Junqua, though without the goals. Like Junqua, Schmitt may not have had the same level of name recognition, but he consistently came on with a clear determination to attack and push the team forward. At times, he would come in to help defend a tight lead; other times, he played as a second striker, looking to score and secure an equalizer. His speed on the wings made him a constant threat, able to make runs down the flank, challenge opposing wing-backs, and deliver crosses into the box. While Schmitt wasn’t a game-changer for the Dynamo—hence not earning an 'A' grade—he was certainly not a liability either. He stepped in and did his job with a solid level of consistency, earning a grade no lower than a 'B'.
Moment of the season
Tate started and played 90 in the MLS opener against Sporting Kansas City back in February. He had 92 touches and even created two shots.
Looking forward
Schmitt is currently one of five players in negotiations for a possible return to the team for the 2025 campaign. If both parties reach an agreement, his versatility in playing both left back and left wing/midfield would make him a valuable depth piece for the various competitions Houston Dynamo FC will face in 2025.
