Transaminase involved in tyrosine breakdown. Converts tyrosine to p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate. 2-oxoglutarate + L-tyrosine = 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)pyruvate + L-glutamate Amino-acid degradation; L-phenylalanine degradation; acetoacetate and fumarate from L-phenylalanine: step 2/6. Homodimer. Belongs to the class-I pyridoxal-phosphate-dependent aminotransferase family.