The Cincinnati Reds have acquired catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, the club announced. Rortvedt, known for his defensive skills behind the plate, will add depth to Cincinnati’s catching corps heading into the next season.
Originally drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the second round of the 2016 MLB Draft, Rortvedt made his major league debut in 2021. He has since had stints with several organizations, most recently spending time with the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. While his offensive numbers have been limited, his ability to manage pitchers and frame pitches has been valued by multiple clubs.
The 26-year-old catcher appeared in a handful of games for the Dodgers during the 2024 season, contributing primarily as a backup option. With the Reds, he is expected to compete for a roster spot during spring training. The team already has several options at catcher, but Rortvedt’s defensive abilities and experience could make him a valuable addition depending on how the roster develops over the offseason.
In a separate transaction, pitcher Tony Gonsolin has elected free agency. Gonsolin, previously a key contributor to the Dodgers’ starting rotation, had been recovering from an injury that sidelined him for part of the 2024 season. After being placed on outright waivers, he chose to enter the free-agent market rather than accept a minor league assignment.
Gonsolin joined the Dodgers in 2019 and played a significant role in their pitching staff over multiple seasons. He was particularly effective during the 2022 campaign, earning an All-Star nod and compiling a standout record. Known for his diverse pitch mix and ability to generate ground balls, Gonsolin now becomes a potentially sought-after option for teams looking to bolster their rotation.
Both moves reflect the early stages of offseason roster adjustments, as clubs begin shaping their 2025 rosters. The Reds continue to look for value additions, while Gonsolin will gauge interest from teams in advance of spring training. More personnel changes are expected across Major League Baseball in the coming weeks.
