The Los Angeles Dodgers have agreed to terms on a one-year big league deal with former Detroit Tigers infielder Andy Ibañez, per MLB insider Kiley McDaniel.
More news: When Could Dodgers Land Their Free Agent Targets? Insider Reveals Timeline
The 32-year-old was non-tendered by the Tigers in November. Ibañez averaged .239 with four home runs, 21 runs batted in, and an OPS of .653 last season with the Tigers. He also recorded four stolen bases in 2025.
Ibañez is considered a glove-first infielder, recording a career slash line of .254/.302/.389 at the plate in five years between the Texas Rangers and Tigers.
Ibañez is a utility player, which marks the second versatile player the Dodgers have acquired Friday.
The defending champions also claimed infielder Ryan Fitzgerald from the Minnesota Twins Friday. The 31-year-old can play all the infield positions with the exception of first base.
Read more: Dodgers Claim Infielder From Twins in Under the Radar Offseason Move
The Dodgers will have to make one 40-man roster move for their two infield pickups. Outfielder Esteury Ruiz was traded to the Miami Marlins earlier this month, which left a vacant spot on the roster.
Ibañez’s deal marks the third big league signing for LA this offseason, with the other two deals being Miguel Rojas on a one-year, $5.5 million deal and Edwin Diaz to a three-year, $69 million deal.
This is an interesting signing for a number of reasons as the arrival of Ibañez gives the Dodgers infield insurance with Tommy Edman undergoing ankle surgery this offseason and free agent Kiké Hernandez not expected to be ready for Opening Day.
It’s not confirmed Hernandez will re-sign with LA, but there is mutual interest between both parties for a reunion.
Ibañez’s deal also gives the Dodgers another right-handed infield bat on the roster. What the next move will be for LA’s front office remains a mystery, but the defending champions are one step closer to cementing their 2026 roster.
Could a big name free agent be next? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
More news: Kyle Tucker Could ‘Fall Right Into Dodgers’ Laps’ in Free Agency, Says Insider
Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
9 Responses
Today’s two signings are just a waste of time. The Dodgers seem to be indecisive on what they want/where to go. Make a decision, get it done and get ready for spring training. Only a few weeks left, especially with the WBC this year.
Not a Dodger fan. Ibanez had some success as a part-time Tiger. Good luck to him, except when the Dodgers play the Tigers in the World Series!
Looks like Kiki is not coming back. I feel Rojas should be the everyday second baseman. He did a wonderful job during the World Series plus he is a solid hitter when he has more playing time. I feel at this state of Max Muncy’s career he is way too injury prone. Think the Dodgers should sign Bo from Toronto.
I think the Dodgers are going to be trading some people on the 40 man for a pitcher….or a possible outfielder….
Hi. I’m a Martinez and Dodgers fan for 73 years. These two just means more experience for us if needed.
Dodgers Are Going To Be Ok With These 2 Ball Players, As For Kiki I Hope He Does Come Back, If Not , It Was Great Watching Him Over The Years At Dodger Stadium And On T.V..??
Teoscar can be moved if Tucker is signed. Kiki might not show right away but he’s not the everyday player. Add a few from minors to complete outfield Edman at second with Rojas backup. Kiki also plays third. Another is Cody Bellinger who can play 1st very well. Bringing back Cody is Smart and not that expensive. It’s a long season and 3-peat is very Rare. Pitching isn’t Dodgers most important equation now. Outfield is. Solidify with Tucker if a short 3 year deal can be reached.
Simply move Teoscar to LF where he played in 2024 and Dodgers won the WS. Either Bellinger or Tucker can play RF and thus the OF defense would be an improvement.
I Agree But I Think You Sign Bellinger High AAV Short Term Deal Maybe 3 Years 120 Million Or 4 Years 160 million Then Sign Bichette To Play Second And Third When Muncy’s Gone That Would Bring Some Younger Very Good Players And Really Make Our Lineup Longer.