The Cincinnati Reds made a roster move on Tuesday, designating catcher Ben Rortvedt for assignment to clear space after signing veteran third baseman Eugenio Suárez to a one-year deal with a mutual option for 2027.
Rortvedt, a 2025 World Series champion with the Los Angeles Dodgers, had joined Cincinnati via waivers earlier in the offseason. His journey to the Reds was part of a three-team trade at last year’s deadline involving the Dodgers, Rays, and Reds-a move that initially sent him to L.A. with modest expectations but ultimately gave him a chance to shine when opportunity knocked.
After the trade, Rortvedt was assigned to Triple-A Oklahoma City, where he played 17 games and posted a .667 OPS with two home runs and six RBIs. Those numbers didn’t exactly scream breakout, but they were solid enough to keep him on the radar. Then came September-and with it, a sudden call to action.
The Dodgers’ catching depth was tested late in the season. Will Smith went down with a hand injury, and Dalton Rushing followed him to the injured list after taking a foul ball off the knee. That left the Dodgers in need of a reliable backstop, and Rortvedt got the nod.
In 18 regular-season games with the Dodgers, Rortvedt slashed .224/.309/.327. Not eye-popping, but he held his own, especially considering the circumstances.
Where he really made an impression, though, was in October. In limited postseason action-just seven at-bats across four games-he delivered, batting .429 with a 1.071 OPS and driving in a run.
For a team chasing a title, those contributions, however small on paper, can loom large in the clubhouse.
Defensively, Rortvedt hovered around league average throughout the 2025 season-a steady presence behind the plate, even if not a standout. But with no minor league options remaining and the Dodgers hesitant to carry three catchers on the 40-man roster heading into the offseason, they made the tough call to designate him for assignment after the season. The Reds quickly scooped him up.
Rortvedt, now 28, showed appreciation for his time in Los Angeles, especially the support he received from Dodgers fans during a whirlwind few months.
“It was tough when I came in but I really appreciate the support,” he said. “It’s been really cool to come in and try to do my job but feel support from the fans and be able to be myself.”
Now, with Cincinnati making room for Suárez, Rortvedt is once again in limbo. But don’t be surprised if he finds another home soon. Backup catchers with postseason experience and a solid defensive floor don’t stay on the market for long-especially ones who’ve proven they can step up when the lights are brightest.