Dodgers Make Roster Moves: Ben Rortvedt DFA’d, Evan Phillips Re-Signed as Team Prepares for 2026

In a series of roster moves, the Los Angeles Dodgers have designated catcher Ben Rortvedt for assignment just five days after claiming him off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds. This move comes as part of a series of adjustments to make room for other key players, including the re-signing of relief pitcher Evan Phillips to a one-year, $6.5 million contract. The Dodgers also designated left-hander Anthony Banda for assignment to accommodate Rortvedt on the roster earlier in the week. Banda remains on waivers.

What Does the Loss of Ben Rortvedt Mean for the Dodgers?

Rortvedt, who was acquired by the Dodgers in 2025 at the trade deadline, made an immediate impact upon his arrival, especially during the second half of the season. He was called up to the big leagues in September when Will Smith and Dalton Rushing were placed on the injured list. Rortvedt made 18 appearances during the regular season, receiving high praise from manager Dave Roberts for his defensive skills and overall contributions. He even earned a spot on the Dodgers’ postseason roster, further solidifying his role as a reliable backup option behind the plate.

However, with Smith and Rushing now healthy, the Dodgers’ decision to move on from Rortvedt makes sense. The team has consistently opted to carry fewer than three catchers on their 40-man roster, a strategy they have maintained all offseason. Rortvedt, at 28 years old, is a solid player, but with the Dodgers’ catching depth restored, his departure is not expected to have a significant long-term impact on the team’s roster.

Evan Phillips’ Return and the Dodgers’ Bullpen Plans for 2026

The re-signing of Evan Phillips is a more significant move for the Dodgers, especially as they prepare for another World Series run in 2026. Phillips, a 31-year-old veteran reliever, has been with the Dodgers since 2021, though his time in 2025 was cut short after he underwent Tommy John surgery in June. As a result, Phillips will not be available at the beginning of the 2026 season, but the Dodgers are hopeful that he will return to form later in the year.

In his five seasons with the Dodgers, Phillips has been a steady contributor out of the bullpen, making 201 appearances and posting an impressive 2.22 ERA. His ability to pitch in high-leverage situations has been crucial for the Dodgers, and he could once again provide key depth when he returns from his rehab.

Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, expressed confidence in Phillips’ return earlier in the offseason.

“We had a number of back-and-forth discussions with Evan and his agent,” Friedman said. “It is challenging with him coming off surgery, so he is going to take some time and look to sign after he throws off the mound when his rehab allows. Evan has been a big part of our past success, and we will continue the conversation about bringing him back. We respect that he is taking this time to decide what is best for him and his family.”

Building for Another Postseason Push

The Dodgers’ front office has made it clear that they are focused on another postseason run as they chase their third consecutive World Series title in 2026. The re-signing of Phillips and the team’s decision to clear roster spots for key contributors highlight their commitment to strengthening the bullpen. Given the Dodgers’ bullpen struggles in 2025, adding a healthy Phillips back into the mix will be vital for the team’s pitching depth and overall success in the upcoming season.

Conclusion: The Dodgers’ Path to 2026

While the Ben Rortvedt DFA may not have a major impact on the Dodgers’ immediate success, the re-signing of Evan Phillips is a crucial move for their bullpen. With Phillips returning from surgery, the team will have one of their most reliable relievers back in the fold as they look to maintain their dominant pitching staff and push for another World Series. As the 2026 season approaches, the Dodgers continue to position themselves as contenders, aiming for another deep postseason run and further solidifying their place among the league’s elite teams.

Key Takeaways:

• The Dodgers designated Ben Rortvedt for assignment just five days after claiming him from the Cincinnati Reds to make room for other players on the roster.

• Evan Phillips was re-signed to a one-year, $6.5 million contract after recovering from Tommy John surgery. Phillips is expected to return later in the 2026 season and add depth to the bullpen.

• The Dodgers’ bullpen will benefit from Phillips’ return, as he has been a key contributor for the team in high-leverage situations in previous seasons.

• Los Angeles continues to build a competitive roster for the 2026 MLB season, focusing on strengthening their pitching staff for another postseason push.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Dodgers’ roster and their preparations for the 2026 season as they aim for another championship run.