UPDATE: The Cincinnati Reds have just claimed backup catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, immediately impacting their roster following his recent triumph in the World Series.
Rortvedt’s acquisition was confirmed on Wednesday, marking a significant move for the Reds as they look to strengthen their catching lineup. The 28-year-old left-handed hitter comes off a season where he batted .152 with one home run and 10 RBIs over 44 games split between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Dodgers. His value was recognized by the Dodgers for his exceptional pitch framing and game-calling abilities, especially while filling in for injured starter Will Smith.
Rortvedt joined the Dodgers during a three-team trade on July 31. His postseason experience includes appearances in the National League Wild Card Series against the Reds and two games in the NL Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. The Reds are banking on his skills to enhance their performance in upcoming games.
In related news, former All-Star pitcher Tony Gonsolin has opted for free agency after rejecting an outright assignment to the minors following his designation for assignment by the Dodgers last week. Gonsolin faced a challenging season, making just seven starts before undergoing elbow surgery that ended his 2023 campaign. He also missed the entire 2024 season recovering from Tommy John surgery.
As the Reds prepare for the next phase of the season, Rortvedt’s addition could play a crucial role in their strategy moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this move affects the team’s dynamics and performance.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the MLB offseason continues to unfold.
