Dodgers News: Dodgers Add Seby Zavala, Jordan Weems to Spring Training as Non-Roster Invites

The Los Angeles Dodgers recently announced their full 32 non-roster invites for Spring Training, with a majority of the group reporting from the Dodgers’ minor league farm system or players who signed minor league contracts this past winter.

But it was revealed that a few names who signed with the Dodgers this past offseason seemingly went unnoticed, those being catcher Seby Zavala and reliever Jordan Weems. Both players have reported to camp, according to the organization.

Zavala joins Chuckie Robinson, who was also a non-roster invite, adding to the list of catchers with MLB experience. Zavala spent last season in Triple-A within the Red Sox organization and posted a .164/.273/.333 slash line with a 36% strikeout rate.

This signing also adds to the catching depth already within the Dodgers organization, joining a list that includes Will Smith, Dalton Rushing, and Ben Rortvedt, who was recently reclaimed from the Cincinnati Reds.

The important part with Rortvedt and the signing of Zavala is the fact that Rortvedt doesn’t have any remaining big league options to be sent back to the minor leagues. This creates a situation where, if Rortvedt doesn’t crack the Opening Day roster, there is a chance he could be waived again, leaving Chuckie Robinson and Seby Zavala as the only depth options within the minors.

As for Jordan Weems, 33, who has pitched at the MLB level for six consecutive seasons, recent years have limited his opportunities to carve out a role, as he made just six appearances for the Houston Astros last season.

Looking back at 2024, the last time he received significant playing time, Weems struggled, posting a 6.70 ERA across 41.2 innings. This eventually led to him being designated for assignment in August of that season. He ultimately cleared waivers and finished the year in Triple-A Rochester.