Banda struck out one in a perfect inning to earn the save in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Athletics.
Banda got the save opportunity after all of Evan Phillips, Blake Treinen, Alex Vesia and Daniel Hudson were deployed between the fifth and eighth innings. It was a drama-free experience for Banda, who needed just 12 pitches (nine strikes) to retire the side. Hudson, who has been the favorite for saves lately, pitched against the heart of the Athletics' order in the eighth inning. Bullpen depth has been a strength for the Dodgers this year, and Banda's been a successful part of that with a 2.16 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 34:14 K:BB over 33.1 innings while adding five holds and a 1-1 record. Banda is still more likely to work in low-leverage spots, but Sunday's outing is proof he can handle bigger moments.