Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Anthony Banda has been traded to the Minnesota Twins, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
Banda was designated for assignment by the Dodgers last week, a move that surprised many, as the left-handed reliever is very popular among the fans.
In exchange for Banda, the Dodgers get international bonus money, Hayes said, though the amount was not specified.
He will cost the Twins $1.625 million he was awarded in arbitration this offseason.
Banda’s Legacy as a Dodger
Banda was part of the 2024 and 2025 World Series champion teams, and recording a 0.5 WAR and 3.08 ERA the former year and a 0.9 WAR and 3.18 ERA in 71 appearances last season.
Oct 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Anthony Banda (43) pitches during the seventh inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game five of the 2025 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
While his 2025 postseason performance was a little rough — he allowed six runs in 5.2 innings, which equates to a 9.53 ERA — he was dominant in the 2024 playoffs. He pitched eight innings over 10 games, with an ERA of just 1.13.
Who Steps in
With Banda gone, left-hander Jack Dreyer is expected to get more opportunities. He’s younger than the 32-year-old Banda, and the team believes he could provide a higher ceiling.
Oct 25, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Anthony Banda (43) relief pitcher Michael Kopech (45) and relief pitcher Alex Vesia (51) celebrate defeating the New York Yankees during game one of the 2024 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Additionally, the Dodgers have lefties Tanner Scott, Alex Vesia and Justin Wrobleski in the bullpen, providing depth to the pitching staff.
Fans Say Goodbye
Despite the talent in the bullpen, Dodgers fans will surely miss Banda’s energy and attitude.
Many took to the comments on social media to say goodbye to the hurler, wishing him best of luck on his new team and posting quite a few crying emojis and GIFs.
Some also took a dig at the weather in the Twin Cities, which is far colder than sunny Southern California.
“From living to sunny LA to Minnesota ??,” fredd_spams_u noted.
As the Boys in Blue bid farewell to Anthony Banda, what memories with him will you cherish? Let us know in the comments what you think his legacy will be and how he’ll be received by his former teammates next time they face off.
The Dodgers are scheduled to visit Minnesota for a three-game stand on June 22 through 24.
LA Baseball Report
Get the app for faster news
GET ×