The Los Angeles Dodgers recently made a move that left fans scratching their heads: they designated fan-favorite pitcher Anthony Banda for assignment (DFA). But why would a team let go of a reliable reliever who’s been a bullpen staple? Let’s dive into the whirlwind of roster moves that led to this decision—and trust me, it’s a wild ride.
The Dodgers’ offseason has been a game of musical chairs with their 40-man roster, as they’ve juggled players to make room for new signings and strategic additions. Names like Ben Rortvedt, Ryan Fitzgerald, Michael Siani, and Andy Ibáñez have been at the center of this churn. And this is the part most people miss: these moves aren’t just about cutting players—they’re about creating flexibility for bigger plans.
Take Fitzgerald, for example. Just four days after the Dodgers claimed him off waivers, he was designated for assignment to make room for Ibáñez, who signed a one-year, $1.2 million deal. Fitzgerald eventually cleared waivers and was sent to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Meanwhile, Siani was DFA’d to accommodate the signing of Kyle Tucker. But here’s where it gets controversial: Siani was claimed by the Yankees, only to be DFA’d again—and somehow, he found his way back to the Dodgers. To re-add Siani to their roster, the Dodgers cut Ibáñez, who was then claimed by the Athletics. It’s a dizzying carousel of moves, but it highlights the cutthroat nature of roster management.
Now, let’s talk about Banda. To reclaim Rortvedt—who had been DFA’d after signing a $1.25 million contract—the Dodgers needed to free up a roster spot. Enter Banda, the latest casualty of this offseason shuffle. The left-hander had been a solid contributor since joining the team in May 2024, posting an 8-3 record with a 3.14 ERA and a 23.3% strikeout rate over 119 games. He even pitched in 17 postseason games, though his ERA climbed to 4.61. But here’s the kicker: despite his reliability, Banda’s lack of Minor League options and the Dodgers’ deep left-handed bullpen—featuring Alex Vesia, Tanner Scott, and Jack Dreyer—made him expendable.
It’s not just about performance; it’s about roster strategy. The Dodgers also have Justin Wrobleski as a potential swingman and Ronan Kopp, a left-handed prospect, on the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. While there’s a slim chance Banda could stay in the organization if he clears waivers, history suggests otherwise—Rortvedt and Ibáñez were both claimed after being DFA’d. Banda’s $1.65 million salary, while higher than Rortvedt’s and Ibáñez’s, might still make him an attractive trade piece, especially since he has one more arbitration year before free agency. Speaking of trades, remember Ryan Brasier? He was DFA’d last February and eventually traded to the Cubs—a fate Banda could share.
But here’s the real question: Did the Dodgers make the right call by letting go of a proven reliever like Banda? Or is this just another example of a team prioritizing flexibility over familiarity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one move that’s sure to spark debate.
