Off-season contracts: The Los Angeles Dodgers sign the versatile infielder Andy Ibáñez for a 1-year, $1.2 million deal

The Major League Baseball off-season contracts are in full swing, the latest being the Los Angeles Dodgers' signing of the veteran infielder Andy Ibáñez for a 1-year, $1.2 million agreement. The decision was announced by the club on Tuesday, January 13, as part of their 2026 off-season roster moves. The deal adds an experienced defensive versatile position player to the infield depth of the Dodgers before spring training.

Ibáñez’s addition brings experience to the Dodgers

Andy Ibáñez, a 32-year-old Cuban switch-hitter, comes to Los Angeles after spending the 2025 season with the Detroit Tigers, where he played in 91 games with a .239 batting average with four home runs and 21 RBIs. In November 2025, Ibáñez became a free agent as the Tigers failed to extend a contract to him in the 2026 season, allowing him to join the Dodgers.
Ibáñez was introduced to the Major League with the Texas Rangers in 2021 and has since gained a reputation as an all-purpose utility player who can play in different posts on the field. He has recorded a career average batting of approximately .254, with 28 home runs. Moreover, throughout 420 games, 128 RBIs have provided flexibility to the managers on how to align their graduates.

Besides his performance on the infield, the capacity of Ibáñez can play in various defensive areas, including second base, third base, and sometimes in the outfield, making him a good investment for a club, willing to reach the championship level. His bat has been traditionally strong against left-hand pitching, which represents a possible late-inning benefit in a contest.

Roster moves to accommodate Ibáñez

To accommodate Ibáñez in the 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated infielder/outfielder Ryan Fitzgerald for assignment. Fitzgerald had recently been waived and had not played a game in Los Angeles before the roster move.

The signing comes as the Dodgers continue to add several strategic acquisitions and veteran renewals in an effort to add more depth to the pitching and position players. After acquiring Ibáñez, Los Angeles now has a proven bench strength and defensive versatility that may be vital throughout an extended regular season and playoff potential.

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