Just days before the Dodgers’ Spring Training opens on Friday, they traded left-handed pitcher Anthony Banda to the Minnesota Twins. This move follows the Dodgers’ decision last week to designate Banda for assignment, signaling that a trade was imminent. The deal involves the Twins acquiring Banda in exchange for international signing bonus pool money.
Details of the Trade and Financial Arrangements
The Twins will assume Banda’s one-year contract, valued at $1.625 million, which the Dodgers agreed to last month to avoid arbitration. In return, the Dodgers received approximately $500,000 in international bonus pool funds. This allocation helps the Dodgers recover some financial flexibility after heavy offseason spending on players like Edwin Diaz and Kyle Tucker. Alongside the acquisition of Banda, the Dodgers designated pitcher Jackson Kowar for assignment as part of the roster adjustments.
Anthony Banda’s Performance and Role with the Dodgers
Banda contributed significantly to the Dodgers in their 2024 championship season, posting a 3.08 ERA and a 15.3% strikeout-to-walk ratio (K-BB%). He bolstered the bullpen with a 1.13 ERA and an effective 13.1% K-BB% during the playoffs. However, in 2025, Banda’s performance regressed, reflected in his increased 4.52 FIP and reduced strikeout rate of 10.1%. Despite maintaining a solid 3.18 ERA, his metrics indicated a downturn that may have affected the team’s confidence in his future role. With several left-handed pitchers ahead of him in the Dodgers’ bullpen hierarchy, including Jack Dreyer, Tanner Scott, and Alex Vesia, Banda’s chances for significant playing time appeared limited. Having exhausted his minor league options, Banda was then designated for assignment, making him available for trade rather than demotion.
Acquisition of Keston Hiura Adds Depth to Dodgers’ Roster
Alongside the Banda trade, the Dodgers signed Keston Hiura to a minor league contract, including an invitation to Spring Training. Hiura, a former ninth overall pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, has struggled in recent seasons after an impressive MLB debut in 2019, where he hit .303/.368/.570. His offensive production declined, with a .707 OPS in the shortened 2020 season and limited success in the following years. Hiura did not play professionally in 2023, had a brief stint with the Angels in 2024 posting a .148 batting average, and appeared in eight games for the Rockies in 2025. The Dodgers are betting on his potential to regain his form, possibly emulating the late-career resurgences of players like Max Muncy and Chris Taylor, though the chances of repeating such turnarounds remain uncertain.
Implications for Dodgers’ 2026 Season Outlook
This series of moves signals the Dodgers’ efforts to fine-tune their roster ahead of the new season amid financial constraints and depth concerns. The trade of Banda reflects the limited opportunities for left-handed pitchers in their bullpen, while the Hiura signing shows a willingness to take a chance on underperforming veterans to revitalize the lineup. As Spring Training begins, the Dodgers will focus on integrating these changes while managing expectations in a competitive MLB landscape.
“Twins are acquiring LHP Anthony Banda in a trade with Dodgers for international signing money. Jackson Kowar was designated for assignment.” – Bobby Nightengale, Reporter
The Dodgers received $500,000 in international bonus pool money in exchange for Anthony Banda from the Minnesota Twins, per sources.
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) February 12, 2026
Dodgers have signed infielder Keston Hiura to a minor league deal that includes an invite to big league camp, source confirms. @JonHeyman was on it.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) February 12, 2026
