The Pirates have claimed LHP Anthony Banda off waivers from the New York Mets.
The 27-year-old Banda (turns 28 on August 10) began the 2021 season in the San Francisco organization with Triple-A Sacramento before being acquired by the Mets in exchange for infielder Will Toffey on 7/2. He made five relief appearances with New York this season, picking up a victory in his first appearance on 7/19 at Cincinnati. He was designated for assignment on Saturday (7/31).
Originally selected by Milwaukee in the 10th round of the 2012 First-Year-Player Draft, Banda was traded to Arizona on 7/31/14 and made his Major League debut with the Diamondbacks in 2017. He also spent parts of three seasons (2018-2020) with Tampa Bay after being acquired by the Rays as part of a three-team deal on 2/2/18.
In 23 big league games (five starts), Banda has posted a 5-3 record, one save and a 6.14 ERA (58.2ip/40er).
