Former Los Angeles Dodgers left-handed relief pitcher Anthony Banda revealed how he felt upon hearing the Dodgers had DFA’d him.
The Dodgers DFA’d Banda in early Feb. after claiming catcher Ben Rortvedt — who they had also put on waivers earlier in the offseason — from the Cincinnati Reds. LA also designated Rortvedt for assignment a few days later to make room for reliever Evan Phillips, who they signed to a one-year deal.
The Minnesota Twins claimed Banda Feb. 12.
“I couldn’t get any words out,” Banda said. “I was so shocked.”
Banda played for the Dodgers in both 2024 and 2025, playing an important role in both of their World Series runs. He had a 3.08 ERA through 48 appearances with the Dodgers in 2024, and had a 3.18 ERA in 2025 through a team-leading 71 appearances.
He had a 1.13 ERA through 10 appearances in the 2024 postseason, and had a spotless postseason record with the Dodgers in 2025 until the World Series, where he allowed six runs in four appearances.
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 ImagesWho Will Take on Anthony Banda’s Role for the Dodgers?
While Banda is clearly an effective reliever, the Dodgers made a few changes to their bullpen over the offseason and have plenty of other left-hander who fulfill a similar role. After signing closer Edwin Diaz, the Dodgers had Tanner Scott, Alex Vesia and Jack Dreyer to fill in as a left-hander during high-leverage situations.
Justin Wrobleski has also impressed as of late, and is making a case for himself to be a starter after primarily coming out of the bullpen last season.
He’s yet to allow a run through three appearances spanning six innings in the Cactus League, and is almost certain to secure a spot on the Opening Day roster.
“I feel good,” Wrobleski said to SportsNet LA’s Kirsten Watson. “Today was a good one. Just continuing to try to attack and be on the front foot against these hitters. I feel good with my new mechanics, so everything’s going smooth.”
With all of these options available, the Dodgers must not have seen Banda as an important piece of the bullpen and moved on in favor of international bonus pool money.
What are your thoughts on Banda’s move?
LA Baseball Report
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