Sun Sep 14 02:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Ben Rortvedt, a little-known catcher acquired by the Dodgers at the trade deadline, has unexpectedly found himself as the team’s primary catcher due to injuries to Will Smith and Dalton Rushing. Despite a slow offensive start, Rortvedt has surprisingly played a key role in recent games, catching Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s near-no-hitter and Tyler Glasnow’s combined near-no-hitter. While his offensive production remains limited, Rortvedt’s performance behind the plate has been noteworthy, earning him unexpected recognition from Dodgers fans. He is expected to remain with the team until Rushing returns from the IL, serving as Smith’s backup.

**News Article:**

**Forgotten Dodger Catcher Rortvedt Steps Up Amid Injury Crisis, Guides Pitchers to Near No-Hitters**

Los Angeles, CA – Ben Rortvedt, a catcher largely forgotten by Dodgers fans after his acquisition at the trade deadline, has suddenly found himself in the spotlight. With injuries sidelining both Will Smith and promising prospect Dalton Rushing, Rortvedt has been thrust into the role of primary catcher, leading to a whirlwind five days he won’t soon forget.

Rortvedt, initially seen as a Triple-A depth piece, was called up as a backup to Rushing after Smith’s hand injury. However, Rushing’s subsequent shin contusion catapulted Rortvedt into the starting role. Despite a lackluster offensive performance, hitting .222 with a .586 OPS, Rortvedt has made an undeniable impact behind the plate.

In a stunning turn of events, Rortvedt caught Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s near-no-hitter against the Orioles and followed that up by catching Tyler Glasnow’s seven hitless innings, contributing to another combined near-no-hitter against the Rockies. Though both bids were broken up in the ninth, Rortvedt’s presence and game-calling were crucial to the pitchers’ success.

“It’s been a wild ride,” Rortvedt said. “I just wanted to contribute in any way I can. It’s an honor to catch these guys and be a small part of these amazing performances.”

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged Rortvedt’s unexpected contribution. “Ben has stepped up when we needed him most. He’s done a great job behind the plate. He’s earned the respect of the pitchers and the team.”

While Smith is expected to return to the starting lineup on Tuesday, Rortvedt will remain on the roster until Rushing recovers. His offensive limitations are well-known, but his recent performance behind the plate has given Dodgers fans a new appreciation for the unexpected hero.

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