When Steven Matz was called up again on July 26 to replace the injured Jake Odorizzi, he was sent back down a few games later but was recalled in September when rosters expanded. In 15 games, he had an ERA of 1.76 in 15+1⁄3 innings. On July 17, 2017, he was called up to the majors for the first time.[4] He pitched 2.1 innings, allowing one run on five hits before being optioned back to the Triple-A Durham Bulls to make room for newly acquired Sergio Romo.
After CC Sabathia struck Jake Bauers in the hand with a fastball, Kittredge launched a pitch at Yankees catcher Austin Romine’s head on September 27, 2018. In addition to a three-game suspension that was eventually lifted, Kittredge was fined an amount that was not disclosed.[5][6] At the end of the season, he made 33 appearances, three of which were starts. He pitched 38+1⁄3 innings with a 7.75 ERA.
The Rays declared on November 2, 2018, that Kittredge was outright sent to Triple A Durham and DFAd.[7] The Rays announced on June 18, 2019, that they had chosen Kittredge’s contract from Triple A Durham.[8] He had a 4.17 ERA in 37 games for Tampa Bay in 2019.
During eight games in 2020, Steven Matz recorded a 2.25 ERA. On August 12, 2020, while pitching against the Boston Red Sox, he injured his UCL, ending his season.[9] After being officially removed from the 40-man roster on October 30, Kittredge chose to pursue free agency. Kittredge re-signed a minor league contract with the Rays organisation on December 8.[10] After his contract’s opt-out clause expired on March 15, 2021, Kittredge was free to sign with another team, the Rays, on March 20 on a new minor league contract.[11] Kittredge was added to the 40-man roster on March 26.[12]
