Dodgers reunite with catcher in trade with Mets to buy more Will Smith time

The Los Angeles Dodgers are turning to a familiar face to address their suddenly precarious situation behind the plate.

Los Angeles acquired catcher Ben Rortvedt from the New York Mets on Monday in exchange for right-hander Chayce McDermott, bringing back a player who became an unexpected fan favorite during last year’s World Series run.

The move comes as the Dodgers wait for clarity on injuries to their top two catchers. Will Smith is dealing with a lingering neck issue, while Dalton Rushing is battling an arm injury that could force him onto the injured list. That left Eliezer Alfonzo as the only healthy catcher on the active roster and made adding external depth an immediate necessity.

Rortvedt may not provide much offensive upside, but he gives the Dodgers something they desperately needed: a major-league-ready catcher who already understands the organization, the pitching staff and the expectations surrounding a championship contender.

Rortvedt finished the 2025 season with Los Angeles and earned his first World Series ring, becoming a popular figure among Dodgers fans along the way. He wasn't one of the stars driving the postseason run, but he embraced his supporting role and earned appreciation for his defense, preparation and willingness to handle whatever responsibilities the Dodgers gave him.

That familiarity makes this reunion particularly sensible. Rortvedt already knows many of the pitchers, coaches and organizational processes he will encounter upon returning.

Ben Rortvedt reunion gives Dodgers stability at catcher as they navigate Will Smith, Dalton Rushing injuries

After being claimed off waivers by the Mets in February, Rortvedt was outrighted off New York’s 40-man roster shortly before Opening Day. He has spent the entire 2026 season at Triple-A Syracuse, producing a .233/.317/.411 slash line with six home runs and two stolen bases in 48 games.

Those numbers are hardly overwhelming, but offense wasn't the primary motivation behind this trade. The Dodgers needed reliable catching depth, and Rortvedt was an attainable option who could step into the clubhouse without a lengthy adjustment period.

Most importantly, acquiring Rortvedt should give the Dodgers more freedom to be cautious with Smith. Neck injuries can be complicated, and Los Angeles has little reason to rush one of its most important players back simply because the depth chart became thin.

The Dodgers hope Smith and Rushing will avoid extended absences. Until then, reuniting with a trusted and well-liked catcher gives them valuable insurance — and buys Smith the time he needs to return at full strength.

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