The Oakland Athletics added infield depth by claiming versatile infielder Andy Ibáñez off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday. To accommodate him on the 40-man roster, the A's designated Max Schuemann for assignment. Ibáñez, who signed a one-year, $1.2 million deal with the Dodgers in January, brings experience and strong performance against left-handed pitching.
The Athletics bolstered their infield options ahead of the 2026 season by claiming 32-year-old Andy Ibáñez off waivers from the Dodgers. Los Angeles had designated Ibáñez for assignment on Tuesday after signing him as a free agent last month, attempting to pass him through waivers to stash him in Triple-A. However, the A's, needing depth at third base and other positions, picked him up and will assume the $1.2 million contract.
Ibáñez, a career .254 hitter with 28 home runs over five MLB seasons split between the Texas Rangers and Detroit Tigers, offers versatility across the diamond. He has logged 5,300 professional innings at second base, 724 at first base, 242 at shortstop, and 186 in the outfield corners. In 2025 with the Tigers, he appeared in 91 games primarily at third and second base, batting .239 with four home runs and 21 RBIs. Notably, he performs well against lefties, hitting .280/.372/.452 in those matchups, though he struggles against right-handers.
Out of minor league options and with 3.133 years of service time, Ibáñez is likely to make the A's Opening Day roster. He will compete for playing time at third base alongside Darell Hernaiz, Brett Harris, and Max Muncy, providing a credible backup role. The A's temporary home at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento could suit his lefty-mashing style in a hitter-friendly environment.
To clear space, the Athletics designated 28-year-old infielder Max Schuemann for assignment. Schuemann, who debuted in 2024, played 101 games in 2025, batting .197 with two home runs and 13 RBIs in 47 starts. Across two seasons, he appeared in 234 games for Oakland.
This move comes as the A's explore further options at third base, following a failed agreement to acquire Nolan Arenado from the St. Louis Cardinals.
