Just a few weeks after signing a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Andy Ibáñez finds himself without a roster spot. The veteran utility infielder, fresh off three seasons with the Detroit Tigers, was designated for assignment after the Dodgers claimed outfielder Michael Siani off waivers from the Yankees. The move came as a surprise-not just because Ibáñez had only recently signed a major league deal, but because the Dodgers seemed to have a need for infield depth.
With Tommy Edman potentially sidelined to start the season and Kiké Hernández still unsigned, Ibáñez appeared to be in line for a bench role. But the Dodgers pivoted quickly. Siani, who was cut by the Yankees to make room for Kyle Tucker on their 40-man roster, now gets a shot in L.A., while Ibáñez is left in limbo.
From a financial standpoint, this wasn’t a move driven by dollars. Ibáñez was set to earn just $1.2 million in 2026-a modest figure for a team with the Dodgers' resources.
That’s pocket change for a franchise that’s spent aggressively and won back-to-back World Series titles. But clearly, roster flexibility and long-term planning took precedence over short-term infield depth.
So what’s next for Ibáñez? Don’t be surprised if Detroit circles back.
The Tigers know what they have in Ibáñez. He’s a steady, versatile option who can handle multiple infield spots and hold his own at the plate. While Detroit seems focused on giving its young talent a longer leash this season, there’s still a case to be made for bringing back a veteran like Ibáñez-especially with a bench role up for grabs.
As things stand, the Tigers are leaning on prospects Max Anderson and Hao-Yu Lee to compete for that utility job. Both are intriguing young players, and giving them a shot makes sense in a developmental year.
But it’s also a gamble. Neither has proven himself at the big-league level, and the Tigers haven’t made many other roster upgrades this winter.
That adds pressure-maybe more than necessary-on the kids to perform right away.
Reuniting with Ibáñez wouldn’t break the bank, and it could offer some much-needed stability. He’s familiar with the clubhouse, brings experience, and could serve as a safety net if the young guys need more time to adjust.
At the very least, he’d give Detroit options. And in a season where the Tigers are trying to take a step forward without overextending, that kind of depth could prove valuable.