Cincinnati Reds Claim Catcher Ben Rortvedt From Dodgers, Impact on Tyler Stephenson & Jose Trevino

The Cincinnati Reds have claimed catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, signaling a potential shift in their catching lineup ahead of the 2026 season. Rortvedt, known for his defensive capabilities but lacking offensive prowess, could put Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino’s futures in Cincinnati in jeopardy, with trade speculation arising. Additionally, the front office is considering a bold move for All-Star closer Devin Williams to bolster their struggling bullpen, while rumors swirl around the possibility of acquiring dynamic outfielder Byron Buxton from the Minnesota Twins. As the offseason progresses, the Reds must also focus on developing their young talent to secure long-term success.

By the NumbersRortvedt brings a strong defensive presence but limited offensive contribution, reflecting a need for the Reds to reconsider their options behind the plate.Ben Rortvedt’s addition could impact the futures of both Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino, who have shown inconsistent performances this past season. Yes, But

While the acquisition of Rortvedt strengthens the catching core, the Reds face significant challenges in retaining Stephenson and Trevino, both of whom have potential trade value but also uncertainty in long-term roles. An adjustment in defensive strategies may be necessary to accommodate Rortvedt.

State of PlayCincinnati is exploring trade possibilities for high-impact players like Devin Williams and Byron Buxton to enhance their roster.The team is prioritizing internal growth of their core players, focusing on consistency and health to compliment their offseason acquisitions. What’s Next

As the offseason unfolds, expect the Reds to finalize trade discussions while evaluating their performance in the Arizona Fall League to make informed decisions about roster changes ahead of the 2026 season.

Bottom Line

The Reds are at a pivotal point in their quest for contention, where smart trades coupled with the development of young talent will significantly dictate their trajectory heading into 2026.