Cincinnati Reds Claim Catcher Ben Rortvedt Off Waivers from Dodgers

CINCINNATI (WKRC) – The Cincinnati Reds claimed catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday. The 28-year-old, a former second-round pick by the Minnesota Twins, has played 227 games over four Major League seasons.

Rortvedt’s rise to the Reds came unexpectedly, as there was no prior indication that he had been designated for assignment, which now reduces the Dodgers’ 40-man roster to 39. With this claim, the Reds increase their count from 37 to 38.

During his time with the Dodgers, Rortvedt played 18 games in the 2025 season, posting a .224 batting average with two doubles, one home run, and four RBIs. He became increasingly important for the Dodgers as injuries affected the team’s catching depth, especially to regulars Will Smith and Dalton Rushing.

Dodgers manager praised Rortvedt for his ability to collaborate effectively with the pitching staff. “He really has that servant leadership mentality behind the plate,” he said. “Our pitchers feel comfortable throwing to him, which has contributed to their success this season.”

Despite his contributions, Rortvedt’s overall offensive output in his career has been challenging, with a lifetime batting average of .190 across 559 at-bats, including nine homers and 52 RBIs.

Rortvedt was a part of a three-team trade at the trade deadline that sent Zack Littell to the Reds, and his defensive skills have been commended throughout his career. In 2024, he managed to post a wins above replacement of 1.4, thanks to his notably solid glovework.

The Reds currently have veteran catchers Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino, making Rortvedt’s future role in Cincinnati unclear.

Rortvedt’s claim marks the end of his tenure with the Dodgers, as he is out of Minor League options and eligible for arbitration, projecting a salary of $1.3 million next season. The Dodgers had likely decided not to tender him a contract, resulting in the waiver.

In moving forward, Rortvedt leaves behind a commendable performance with the Dodgers and a chance to establish himself with the Reds.