BREAKING: The Cincinnati Reds have just claimed backup catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, immediately impacting their roster following the Dodgers’ recent World Series victory. This move comes just days after Rortvedt contributed to the team’s championship run.
Rortvedt, a 28-year-old left-handed hitter, struggled at the plate this season, posting a batting average of just .152 with one home run and 10 RBIs across 44 games split between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Dodgers. Despite his offensive challenges, he was valued for his pitch framing and game-calling abilities, especially while stepping in for injured starter Will Smith.
The catcher joined the Dodgers in a three-team trade deal on July 31 and made notable appearances in critical postseason matchups, including the National League Wild Card Series against the Reds and two NL Division Series games against the Philadelphia Phillies. His acquisition by the Reds marks a strategic move to bolster their catching depth.
In a related development, former All-Star pitcher Tony Gonsolin has opted for free agency after rejecting an outright assignment to the minors. The 31-year-old right-hander faced a challenging season, making only seven starts before undergoing elbow surgery that sidelined him for the remainder of the year. Gonsolin previously missed all of 2024 recovering from Tommy John surgery.
As the Reds look to enhance their roster, Rortvedt’s skill set may play a pivotal role in their future games. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as he transitions to his new team and aims to improve on his performance in the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for more updates on Rortvedt’s integration into the Reds and the implications for the upcoming baseball season.