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Rortvedt Elects Free Agency After Two Stints With Dodgers
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- Rortvedt Elects Free Agency After Two Stints With Dodgers
(IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Ben Rortvedt is looking for his next opportunity after electing minor-league free agency following the conclusion of his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers .
The 29-year-old catcher was outrighted off Los Angeles' 40-man roster in September, making free agency an expected outcome. With more than three years of major-league service time and no subsequent selection to the active roster, Rortvedt became eligible to explore opportunities elsewhere.
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His departure comes after a winding journey through several organizations and two separate stints with the Dodgers. Although he has struggled to establish himself offensively in the majors, his experience behind the plate has kept him in consideration as a potential depth option for teams seeking catching help.
Dodgers reunions highlighted Rortvedt's 2026 season
Rortvedt's connection to Los Angeles dates back to the 2025 season, when he appeared in 18 regular-season games and four postseason contests for the Dodgers, earning a World Series ring.
His path back to the organization was less straightforward the following year. After a series of waiver claims moved him between the Dodgers, Cincinnati Reds , and New York Mets , Rortvedt ultimately began the 2026 season in the Mets' minor-league system.
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New York designated him for assignment before Opening Day, and he accepted an outright assignment to Triple-A rather than pursuing another opportunity elsewhere.
The Dodgers eventually reacquired him at the 2026 Trade Deadline, bringing him back to an organization familiar with his abilities and experience.
Los Angeles had a particular need for catching depth after injuries affected both Will Smith and Dalton Rushing. The team added Rortvedt and former Dodgers catcher Hunter Feduccia to help address those concerns as the season progressed.
Rortvedt appeared in 16 games for Los Angeles in August, recording a .185 batting average, a .185 on-base percentage and a .185 slugging percentage across 28 plate appearances.
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His offensive production did little to strengthen his case for a larger role, but his return demonstrated that the Dodgers were willing to rely on familiar options while navigating injuries at catcher.
Finding another opportunity in 2027
At 29, Rortvedt could pursue another minor-league contract that gives him an opportunity to compete for a roster spot during spring training. A depth role in Triple-A also remains a possibility as teams evaluate their catching situations for the upcoming season.
The Dodgers could be among the organizations willing to consider bringing him back, given their familiarity with him and their previous decision to reacquire him during the season.
However, his next destination remains uncertain as he enters free agency.
