Dodgers Lose Player to Mets in MLB Free Agency

Story by

Gavin Groe

Sun, Feb 15, 2026 ·

2 min read

Over the past two years, the Los Angeles Dodgers have largely avoided major setbacks, claiming consecutive World Series championships. Heading into the 2026 season, the team faces high expectations as it aims for a possible three‑peat.

During the offseason, the Dodgers have been busy adjusting their 40‑man roster to handle the demands of a full 162‑game schedule and to safeguard against injuries.

But for a team as talented and deep as Los Angeles , one filled with superstars across the lineup and pitching staff, the front office has been forced to make difficult decisions involving several depth pieces.

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) Aaron Doster-Imagn Images
(Aaron Doster-Imagn Images)

That included left‑handed reliever Anthony Banda , who was designated for assignment this past week in order to claim catcher Ben Rortvedt .

The Dodgers hoped Banda might clear waivers so they could stash him in Triple-A as insurance, but it quickly became clear that would not happen.

Instead, they traded him to the Minnesota Twins . Banda is a quality arm who posted a 3.18 ERA last season across 71 appearances, but the Dodgers simply did not have room for him.

Mets Claim Rortvedt Off Waivers

Unfortunately for Los Angeles, the player they claimed that forced Banda off the roster is now gone as well. On Sunday, the New York Mets announced they had claimed Rortvedt off waivers from the Dodgers.

Rortvedt had also been designated for assignment earlier in the week so the team could finalize a one‑year contract with veteran reliever Evan Phillips , and the Mets jumped at the opportunity to add him.

This marks the second time the Dodgers have lost Rortvedt this winter. They first designated him in November, when the Cincinnati Reds claimed him. Los Angeles was able to bring him back after the Reds DFA’d him to make room for third baseman Eugenio Suarez , but once again they were unable to retain him.

The Dodgers genuinely hoped to keep Rortvedt because he fit so well last season when All‑Star catcher Will Smith was dealing with a wrist injury.

After being acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays , Rortvedt appeared in 18 games for Los Angeles and posted a .224 batting average, .309 on‑base percentage and .636 OPS. Those are solid numbers for a defense‑first catcher, and his ability to handle the pitching staff made him a valuable depth option.

Losing both Banda and Rortvedt in the same week underscores how competitive the Dodgers’ roster has become as they push for a third straight championship.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.