The Boston Red Sox's bullpen underwent serious turnover over the past several months. They traded Brennan Bernardino to the Colorado Rockies and Chris Murphy to the Chicago White Sox at the 40-man roster protection deadline, and both were lefty arms that were contributors in one way or another during the 2025 season.
Free agency hasn't helped either. Justin Wilson, Steven Matz, and other lefties departed or weren't re-signed, leaving Boston thin on southpaw relief pitchers. That's created a need for their bullpen depth, specifically for a left-hander who can handle opposing lefty bats and bridge to late innings.
Fortunately, the Red Sox might have the perfect opportunity to address that need.
The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on Friday that they've designated veteran left-hander Anthony Banda for assignment, per MLB Trade Rumors' Darragh McDonald, opening the door for any club in need of bullpen help just days ahead of Spring Training.
Red Sox Must Capitalize on Anthony Banda's Sudden Availability
For the Red Sox, Banda is a low-risk, high-reward move that fills a glaring hole in their bullpen going into 2026.
In 2025 with the Dodgers, Banda was one of the club's most reliable lefty bullpen arms, pitching 65 full innings with a 3.18 ERA in 71 total games (65 innings). Over the last two seasons with LA, he's been the best version of himself, posting a 3.14 ERA and 1.23 WHIP, keeping the opponents to a low batting average. He's also struck out 111 batters in those two years as well. Those are impressive numbers for a lefty reliever.
However, there were signs of Banda declining with an increased walk rate and a decreased strikeout rate. Having said that, if anyone can improve a pitcher, it's pitching coach Andrew Bailey. His track record with Kevin Gausman, Anthony DeSclafani, Alex Wood, Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, Justin Slaten, Justin Wilson, Lucas Giolito, and Aroldis Chapman proves that.
Right now, the Red Sox have only one true lefty with Aroldis Chapman as their closer. Beyond that, the team's bullpen mix includes unproven arms like Kyle Harrison (although he did do well in the short stretch he had with the Red Sox in September), top prospect Jake Bennett, and maybe Payton Tolle if he doesn't start in Triple-A Worcester.
Adding Banda would bolster Boston's ability to handle tough late-inning lefty matchups, which is something the roster currently lacks.
Importantly, claiming Banda is a low-cost move. With the Dodgers DFA'ing him to clear a 40-man spot, Boston could bring him in without giving up prospects or draft capital. No return on interest. If he clears waivers, a minor-league deal with an invite to Spring Training could still give Boston bullpen insurance without the commitment of a bigger free-agent contract. However, that won't be ideal, given how well he's played since 2024.
In a season where the Red Sox are aspiring to compete and climb back into playoff contention, every edge matters. Adding a proven lefty reliever like Anthony Banda could be the kind of savvy addition that strengthens Boston's bullpen and helps them avoid late-game collapses in tight divisional races, especially with the likes of Toronto or New York.