Reds Claim Dodgers’ Ben Rortvedt Off Waivers After World Series Win

URGENT UPDATE: The Cincinnati Reds have just announced the acquisition of backup catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, following the Dodgers’ recent victory in the World Series. This pivotal move comes just days after Rortvedt contributed to the Dodgers’ championship run.

Rortvedt, a 28-year-old left-handed hitter, had a challenging season, finishing with a batting average of .152, including one home run and 10 RBIs across 44 games for both the Tampa Bay Rays and the Dodgers. Despite his struggles at the plate, he was recognized for his valuable pitch framing and game-calling abilities, especially while stepping in for injured starter Will Smith.

The Reds’ decision to claim Rortvedt signals their intent to bolster their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season. The catcher joined the Dodgers in a major three-team trade on July 31, 2023, and made key appearances during the playoffs, including in the National League Wild Card Series against the Reds and two NL Division Series games against the Philadelphia Phillies.

In related news, former All-Star pitcher Tony Gonsolin has opted to become a free agent after rejecting an outright assignment to the minors. Gonsolin, who was designated for assignment by the Dodgers last week, made only seven starts this season due to elbow surgery that sidelined him for the remainder of the year. He previously missed all of 2024 while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

As the Reds integrate Rortvedt into their lineup, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this strategic move impacts their performance in the upcoming season. This transaction highlights the ongoing shifts in team rosters as organizations look to strengthen their squads for future success.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.