On November 12th, the Los Angeles Dodgers announced some significant roster changes, including a key pitcher electing free agency and a catcher moving to a new team. These moves come as the baseball world prepares for the upcoming season. Right-handed pitcher Tony Gonsolin cleared waivers and chose to become a free agent. The Dodgers had designated him for assignment after their World Series win.
This wasn't a big surprise, as Gonsolin is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2026 season while recovering from a second major elbow surgery. Gonsolin, who is 31 years old, had a standout rookie season in 2019 and became an All-Star in 2022, going 16-1 with a 2.14 earned run average. However, he's battled injuries throughout his career, including Tommy John surgery in 2023 and another elbow injury that led to a second surgery. Meanwhile, in the same announcement, the Dodgers also revealed that catcher Ben Rortvedt was claimed off waivers by the Cincinnati Reds.
Rortvedt had been acquired by the Dodgers at the trade deadline and played a crucial role late in the season, even starting some playoff games due to other injuries. Rortvedt impressed with his game-calling and framing skills, which greatly benefited the Dodgers' starting pitchers during their late-season push and into the playoffs. His departure marks the end of his time with the Dodgers, as he now heads to the Reds.