The Blue Jays have announced to reporters, including Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith, that they have acquired left-handed pitcher Anthony Banda of the Pirates for cash considerations. Band had been appointed for the assignment earlier this week.
With Toronto missing several relievers on the injured list, Banda’s acquisition adds some depth to the bullpen, and Banda could position himself for regular work, even when everyone is healthy. Tim Mayza is the top left of the Jays bullpen, with Taylor Saucedo and rookies Matt Gage and Andrew Vasquez seen as the second left-back of the relief corps (Saucedo and Vazquez are two of the IL pitchers).
It’s been a tough season and maybe just bad luck for Banda, who has an effectiveness of 6.41 in 19 innings and 2/3 with the Pirates in 2022. Banda’s SIERA is a much more respectable 3.47, as a BABIP of .463 indicates that despite its success. to limit hard contact, many of the Band balls in play are becoming punches. Band also has an impressive 5.1% walking rate.
The 28-year-old is no stranger to the AL East as he has pitched with the Rays between 2018-20. Banda spent most of his time in Tampa recovering from Tommy John’s surgery, and has yet to really settle into the majors. The 33 2/3 innings of the left-hander in 2021 marked his highest career, as Banda had a 4.28 ERA with the Mets and Pirates.