In a move that has sparked both intrigue and debate among baseball fans, the Cincinnati Reds have bolstered their catching lineup by claiming Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers. But here's where it gets controversial: while Rortvedt is widely recognized for his defensive prowess, particularly in pitch framing and game calling, his offensive contributions have left much to be desired. Could this be a strategic gamble by the Reds, or are they settling for less in their quest for a well-rounded roster? Let’s dive in.
Rortvedt, a 28-year-old left-handed hitter, joins the Reds after a season split between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Dodgers. With no remaining Minor League options, he’s seen as a defense-first player, a role he’s embraced throughout his four-year Major League career. However, his offensive stats tell a different story: in 44 games this season, he batted just .152 with one home run and 10 RBIs. And this is the part most people miss: despite his struggles at the plate, Rortvedt’s defensive skills have often kept him in the conversation as a valuable asset.
His journey to Cincinnati is intertwined with a larger trade narrative. Rortvedt began the season with the Rays before being dealt to the Dodgers on July 31 as part of a three-team trade that sent starting pitcher Zack Littell to the Reds. During his time in Los Angeles, he stepped in for the injured Will Smith, even appearing in the National League Wild Card Series against the Reds and the NL Division Series against the Phillies. This postseason experience, though limited, adds a layer of depth to his resume.
Over 227 career games with the Twins (2021), Yankees (2023), Rays (2024-25), and Dodgers, Rortvedt has compiled a .190 batting average with a .549 OPS and nine home runs. Now, he joins Tyler Stephenson, Jose Trevino, and Will Banfield as part of the Reds’ catching corps on the 40-man roster, which currently sits at 37 players. Here’s the bold question: Is Rortvedt’s defensive brilliance enough to outweigh his offensive shortcomings, or will this move backfire for the Reds? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this divisive addition.
