What happened: The fifth-year college pitcher joins the Toronto organization after logging 12 relief appearances and 6.1 innings during his lone Division I season at LSU, where he struck out nine batters and walked 12 for an 8.53 ERA. Prior to his transfer to Baton Rouge, Dathe spent two seasons at Angelo State, compiling a 17-5 record and 4.00 ERA across 157.2 innings. Over his tenure with the Rams, he recorded 208 strikeouts while issuing 61 walks and hitting 24 batters.
Why it matters: Toronto's player development staff will aim to refine his mechanics to reduce command lapses and maximize his underlying strikeout stuff. The addition provides low-cost pitching depth for a Toronto Blue Jays organization that recently traded major league reliever Tommy Nance and parted with $250,000 in draft bonus pool space. Dathe represents the ninth player from LSU's 2026 roster to secure an opportunity with a major league club following the eight Tigers selected during the draft.
By the numbers: Through 89 regular-season games in 2026, Toronto holds a 41-48 record while averaging 4.1 runs scored and 4.6 runs allowed per contest. Across 164.0 total collegiate innings between Angelo State and LSU, Dathe compiled 217 strikeouts against 73 walks, averaging 11.9 strikeouts per nine innings.
What to watch: Dathe will enter Toronto's minor league developmental system as coaches begin mechanical assessments to address his command. His initial professional assignment and workout schedule will follow formal onboarding with the organization.