Dodgers Finalize Anthony Banda Trade with Twins
The Los Angeles Dodgers have finalized a trade that sends left-handed pitcher Anthony Banda to the Minnesota Twins. In exchange, the Twins have transferred $500,000 in international bonus pool space to the Dodgers. This transaction reflects adjustments in each team’s league-allotted spending limits; Minnesota’s decreases while Los Angeles’s increases by the same amount.
Trade Details
Anthony Banda, now 32 years old, was designated for assignment last week before making his way to Minnesota. The Dodgers earlier acquired him in a cash transaction during the 2024 season. Banda quickly became a reliable bullpen option with Los Angeles, registering a 3.14 ERA and a strikeout rate of 23.3% over nearly two seasons.
Banda’s Performance with the Dodgers
- 2024-2025 ERA: 3.14
- Strikeout Rate: 23.3%
- Walk Rate: 10.9%
- Ground-Ball Rate: 41.6%
- Average Fastball Velocity: 96 mph
- Innings Pitched: 114.2
- Significant Stats: 19 holds, 2 saves
During the 2025 season, Banda’s performance declined slightly, with a 3.18 ERA and a rise in his walk rate from 8.6% to 12.7%. Despite these changes, he maintained a respectable ERA over 65 innings. Nonetheless, the Dodgers opted to part ways with Banda, who was considered surplus to requirements, especially given his salary of $1.625 million.
Implications for the Twins
For Minnesota, Banda adds significant depth to a bullpen that underwent major changes after the 2023 season. The Twins had offloaded five relievers and were looking to rebuild. Banda, who has 4.135 years of MLB service, is expected to contribute for several seasons, underlining his importance as a potential high-leverage option for the team.
Banda’s Future
With the Twins, Banda will work under manager Derek Shelton, who previously managed him at the Pittsburgh Pirates. His upcoming season comes with an arbitration raise expected next year, but his manageable salary allows flexibility within the team’s budget.
Dodgers’ Moves
As part of this trade, the Dodgers have designated right-hander Jackson Kowar for assignment to make room for Banda on their 40-man roster. Kowar was a former first-round pick but has struggled throughout his career, posting an 8.21 ERA across four MLB seasons. The Dodgers will have to decide whether to trade him or place him on waivers soon.
Upcoming Changes for the Twins
The Twins are actively seeking further bullpen enhancements. They have also secured veterans like Liam Hendriks and Julian Merryweather on minor league deals. Additionally, several promising prospects are in contention for rotation and bullpen spots, as general manager Jeremy Zoll continues to build a competitive team.
Overall, the successful acquisition of Anthony Banda positions the Minnesota Twins more favorably as they look to enhance their bullpen depth moving forward.
