Ben Rortvedt Thrust into Dodgers' Postseason Starting Catcher Role Amidst Injuries

Journeyman catcher Ben Rortvedt, 28, has been unexpectedly thrust into the Los Angeles Dodgers' postseason plans, earning the starting role for Game 1 of the NL Wild Card series against the Cincinnati Reds. Traded from the Tampa Bay Rays at the deadline, Rortvedt was called up in early September due to injuries to Will Smith and Dalton Rushing. Despite a challenging start to 2025 and a nomadic career with the Twins and Yankees, he provided a steady presence behind the plate, improved defense, and subtly useful offense, hitting 11-for-49 with two doubles and a home run, and a .224 average with three sacrifice bunts. Dodgers pitchers posted a 2.89 ERA in his 18 games caught. Manager Dave Roberts named him primary catcher, and Game 1 starter Blake Snell praised his "clutch" play and "contagious" excitement. With Smith limited to pinch-hitting, Rortvedt's critical role ensures his first playoff start.