NASHVILLE, TN - Nashville SC announced on Thursday the signing of free agent defender Tate Schmitt to a contract through 2025 with an option for 2026.
Schmitt, 27, is a six-year MLS veteran. He began his career with Real Salt Lake as a homegrown signing after playing four seasons with the University of Louisville, where he overlapped with current Nashville assistant Danny Cepero.
“Tate is an experienced left back that has the attributes we look for in a player in that role both offensively and defensively,” said Nashville SC President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Mike Jacobs said in a statement. “We are excited to be able to add him to our group.”
With Salt Lake, Schmitt played sporadically, spending time with Real Monarchs, their reserve side, as well as a stint on loan with Phoenix Rising in the USL Championship. After his contract option was declined following the 2022 season, he signed with Houston Dynamo, where he made 21 appearances before his option was declined last season.
Tate Schmitt puts it away! @realsaltlake retake the lead! pic.twitter.com/kcVWiu5ZJ4
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 20, 2022
Schmitt's signing gives Nashville needed depth at left-back after Taylor Washington suffered an injury in a 1-0 win over Chattanooga Red Wolves last week. While no details have been publicly confirmed, it's expected to keep the USL original sidelined for a significant portion of the season.
Tate is expected to back up Dan Lovitz, who has been an ever-present for BJ Callaghan at left back this season. The 33-year-old has started all 13 of Nashville's matches in MLS, playing 99% of potential minutes and tying Andy Najar and Hany Mukhtar for the team lead with four assists.
