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Syracuse Today
By the People, for the People
Mets Claim World Series Champion Catcher From Dodgers
New York adds veteran backstop Ben Rortvedt to their roster.
Published on Feb. 16, 2026
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The New York Mets have claimed catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he won a World Series championship in 2025. Rortvedt, a 28-year-old with MLB experience across four teams, is known for his strong defensive skills behind the plate despite a career .190 batting average.
Why it matters
The Mets are looking to add veteran experience to their roster as they aim to reach the World Series themselves. Rortvedt's championship pedigree could provide a boost, even if he doesn't end up as the everyday starter.
The details
Rortvedt was designated for assignment by the Dodgers, allowing the Mets to claim him. He had previously been DFA'd by the Dodgers earlier this offseason, claimed by the Cincinnati Reds, and then returned to Los Angeles. In the 2025 playoffs, Rortvedt started the first four games for the Dodgers with Will Smith injured, hitting .429, though he did not see any action in the NLCS or World Series.
- Rortvedt won the World Series with the Dodgers in 2025.
- The Mets claimed Rortvedt off waivers on February 15, 2026.
The players
Ben Rortvedt
A 28-year-old catcher who has played in 227 MLB games between the Twins, Yankees, Rays, and Dodgers, winning a World Series championship with the Dodgers in 2025.
Francisco Alvarez
The Mets' starting catcher.
Luis Torrens
The Mets' backup catcher on paper.
What’s next
It will be interesting to see if Rortvedt can earn a spot on the Mets' major league roster or if he ends up starting the season at Triple-A Syracuse.
The takeaway
The Mets are bolstering their catching depth by adding a veteran with World Series experience in Ben Rortvedt, signaling their intent to build a championship-caliber roster.
