The Los Angeles Dodgers once again captured the attention of the MLB community by officially claiming catcher Ben Rortvedt from waivers, just weeks after they had DFA-ed him at the beginning of the offseason. This seemingly paradoxical move perfectly reflects the Dodgers’ operating philosophy: cool, pragmatic, but always ready to adjust to serve their ultimate goal—winning.
In a season where every small detail can determine success or failure, Rortvedt’s return is not simply a personnel change. It’s a message about the depth, flexibility, and quick correction capabilities of an organization that always prioritizes championship ambitions.
Ben Rortvedt’s DFA-ed at the start of the offseason wasn’t due to poor performance. It was a natural consequence of the 40-man roster dilemma, as the Dodgers needed space for major trades and long-term plans. In that cutthroat competition, players with crucial roles are often the first to make way.
However, after a short time, the Dodgers realized they had underestimated Rortvedt’s quiet value — especially given the team’s need for a more stable catcher, willing to support the pitching staff during a long and physically demanding season.
Rortvedt isn’t a name that attracts the spotlight. He doesn’t boast flashy offensive statistics. But for the Dodgers, that was never the only criterion.
This catcher, born in 1998, is highly valued for his defensive abilities behind the home plate, his solid framing skills, and especially his understanding of how to work with the pitcher — something incredibly important for a team with so many quality arms like the Dodgers.
In the clubhouse, Rortvedt is seen as a professional, quiet player, willing to take on any role. And sometimes, it is players like him who form the foundation that keeps a star-studded team running smoothly.
The answer lies in roster depth. The Dodgers understand that the MLB season isn’t decided in April or May, but in a marathon of 162 games—where injuries, overwork, and inconsistent form are inevitable.
Reclaiming Rortvedt helps the Dodgers:
Increase the safety of the catcher position
Reduce the workload on the primary catcher
Provide a stable option when needing to catch a bullpen or young pitcher
And most importantly: maintain the quality of defense behind the plate
This is a strategic decision rather than an emotional one.
The Dodgers aren’t afraid to admit they need a player who’s been sidelined. They don’t let ego get in the way of the team’s best interests. For them, if a piece fits, bringing it back makes perfect sense.
That’s the mindset of a team always in contention for a championship.
Ben Rortvedt isn’t returning to be the number one catcher. He returned to do what he does best: support, stability, and being ready when called upon.
In a star-studded lineup, his role might not be flashy, but it’s crucial at key moments—when the team needs solidity more than flamboyance.
The DFA’s move to reclaim the same player shows that the Dodgers closely monitor the waivers market and don’t hesitate to adjust when necessary. They aren’t bound by previous decisions, nor are they afraid of criticism for “reversing course.”
Their only concern is: whether the team is better.
In a season where every small decision can make a big difference, Ben Rortvedt’s return to the Dodgers is proof of how a large organization operates: calm, precise, and without wasting opportunities.
Not noisy.
Not ostentatious.
But calculated.
The Dodgers brought Ben Rortvedt back from the waivers. Not to shock, but to affirm that in Los Angeles, every small detail is considered part of the journey to winning the championship.
