Anthony Banda, previously released by the Dodgers earlier this year, has found a fresh opportunity with the Minnesota Twins, who see him as a vital addition to their bullpen. After a career marked by multiple team changes and adjustments, Banda’s move to the Twins comes as the team aims to strengthen their relief pitching ahead of the season.
The Dodgers’ decision to part ways with Banda appears rooted in financial strategy and roster management, rather than a lack of potential. Although some performance concerns existed, the Dodgers likely expected that Banda’s $1.625 million arbitration salary would deter other teams from claiming him. However, the Twins quickly recognized the value he brings, especially given their bullpen needs.
Derek Shelton’s Confidence in Banda’s Competitive Spirit
At the start of Spring Training, Twins manager Derek Shelton reflected on his previous experience with Banda during their time together in Pittsburgh, describing him as
a bulldog [who is] not afraid of taking the ball.
Shelton’s endorsement signals the trust that Banda can handle high-pressure situations and serve as a reliable reliever for the Twins’ pitching staff.
Banda’s Journey Through Baseball’s Ranks
Selected in the 10th round of the 2012 MLB Draft by the Milwaukee Brewers, Banda’s professional path has been winding, spanning over ten minor league organizations and a brief stint in the majors with the Nationals. His mid-season acquisition by the Dodgers from the Guardians for cash marked a turning point, thanks in part to key adjustments in his pitching mechanics and approach.
One significant modification came from Dodgers pitching coach Connor McGuiness, who altered Banda’s slider grip. Rather than a conventional hold, Banda was instructed to
“try to grip the baseball with a spike, digging the nail of his index finger into the seam to impact movement and spin. The instruction was simple: Aim down the middle, throw it like a fastball and let it rip…Rather than loop, the slider moved sharply. Instead of feeling like he was guiding the pitch, he threw it emphatically without sacrificing command.”
?Connor McGuiness, Dodgers pitching coach
This change enhanced the slider’s sharpness, contributing to Banda’s status as a formidable left-handed weapon during the Dodgers’ championship run.
Performance Highlights and Persistent Challenges
Throughout the 2024 postseason, Banda played a crucial role after the Dodgers’ top left-handed reliever, Alex Vesia, sustained an injury during the NLCS. Banda’s ten appearances allowed only a single run, underlining his value in high-stakes moments. In the following 2025 season, he posted a 3.18 ERA across 64.2 innings with 70 game appearances, reflecting his durability and frequent usage.
However, Banda’s performance exhibited some unevenness. He showed a marked split against batters: while left-handed hitters had a manageable 3.34 FIP against him, righties were more successful, managing a 5.54 FIP. Additionally, his walk rate was among the league’s highest, an issue the Twins will likely focus on correcting to maximize his effectiveness.
Despite occasional struggles, Banda remained one of the Dodgers’ most trusted bullpen arms, often called upon in consecutive games during critical junctures. His ability to perform under pressure contributed to a 1.2 WPA for the season, ranking second only to Vesia among Dodgers relievers.
His 2025 postseason included a notable low point in Game 1 of the World Series, where a matchup against Addison Barger led to a pinch-hit grand slam, a first in World Series history. Though this moment affected his statistics, it does not diminish the underlying quality of his pitching arsenal.
Adjustments Ahead and Role with the Twins
It is possible the Dodgers over-relied on Banda’s slider last season, and the Twins may seek to rebalance his pitch mix by reintroducing the fastball and sinker more prominently. This adjustment could allow Banda to regain dominance as an effective left-handed reliever, a role much needed by the Twins.
At 32 years old, Banda brings valuable experience to a bullpen that is both young and developing. Under the guidance of Twins pitching coach Pete Maki, possible roles for Banda include a “fireman” reliever deployed in high-leverage mid-inning situations or perhaps even as an eighth-inning bridge to the closer.
Given his demonstrated resilience and refined pitching style, Banda represents a foundational component for the Twins’ bullpen plans, aiming to stabilize and elevate their relief pitching in the coming seasons.
