Dodgers Rumors: Dodgers’ Anthony Banda Drawing Trade Interest After DFA
Los Angeles may find a suitor soon as clubs inquire about the recently designated southpaw.
LOS ANGELES, CA—At the tailend of last week, the Los Angeles Dodgers made several moves before they gear up to report to spring training, among them was the announcement of reclaiming veteran catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds.
The consequence of that move, however, was that the Dodgers needed to make a corresponding move on their 40-man roster, which was already full. In the end, the team opted to DFA fan-favorite left-handed relief pitcher Anthony Banda.
The move removed Banda from the 40-man roster, starting a seven-day clock for the Dodgers to trade him or put him on outright or unconditional release waivers.
If Banda is placed on outright waivers and claimed, he would be instantly added to that team’s 40-man roster. If he clears waivers, Banda could choose to become a free agent or remain in the organization by joining the Minor Leagues, but all signs suggest the left-hander is likely to be traded.
According to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, Banda is expected to have a surplus of suitors that may not want to wait for the lefty to test the free agent market, where interested clubs will only be required to pay him league minimum for the 2026 regular season.
Banda is expected to have an interesting trade market, with quality left-handed relievers being hard to come by – much less at his $1.625 million price tag.
Despite frustrating many Dodgers fans over the last two years, Banda has been one of Dave Roberts’ most-used bullpen arms, finishing his Dodgers tenure with a 3.14 ERA across 114.2 innings, including 71 appearances in 2025.
Banda has been particularly effective against left-handed hitters, holding them to a .153 average and a .496 OPS. However, right-handed batters have fared better against him, batting .229 with a .773 OPS, which is valuable information for teams across the league.
Pitchers and catchers report to camp this Friday, so I’d imagine Los Angeles would like to get a deal done before that date.
For ongoing Dodgers trade rumors and deadline updates, visit our trade tracker.
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
