The versatile Cuban player, Andy Ibáñez, has been claimed off waivers by the New York Mets on Thursday, as reported by Pelota Cubana. This move comes after the Athletics designated him for assignment, and he is set to join the Mets' active roster immediately.
The transaction was finalized on the same day the Mets designated reliever Carl Edwards Jr. for assignment, creating a spot on their 40-man roster to accommodate the player from Pinar del Río.
Without any remaining options, Ibáñez must be added to the 26-man active roster right away, compelling the New York team to make an additional roster move once he reports.
Ibáñez's stint with Oakland was brief and underwhelming, as he hit just .118 over 11 games, with an OPS of .284 in 18 at-bats and three RBIs.
The series of moves leading him to the Mets began in January when he signed a one-year deal worth $1.2 million with the Dodgers. He was designated for assignment in February following Michael Siani's arrival. The Athletics then claimed him, and now the Mets are taking on that $1.2 million contract.
Joining a team plagued by injuries, Ibáñez arrives as a much-needed addition. Francisco Lindor has been sidelined since April 23 due to a left calf strain, Jorge Polanco is dealing with a wrist contusion and heel bursitis since mid-April, and Luis Robert Jr. was placed on the injured list on Thursday with a lumbar disc herniation.
Further injuries to starter Kodai Senga, Paul Blackburn, and shortstop Ronny Mauricio have left the team with a declining record and diminishing postseason chances.
Ibáñez's profile fits this need precisely; he is a utility player capable of covering second base, third base, first base, and outfield corners, boasting over 1,000 innings at second base throughout his career.
Offensively, his standout recent season was in 2023 with the Detroit Tigers, where he achieved a wRC+ of 103, surpassing the league average. However, in 2024 and 2025, his numbers dipped to a combined average of .240 with a wRC+ of 85.
Originally hailing from Pinar del Río, Ibáñez left Cuba in 2015 and signed with the Texas Rangers. He debuted in the Major Leagues on April 28, 2021, becoming the 219th Cuban to reach MLB.
After spells with the Rangers (2021-2022) and Detroit (2023-2025), the Mets represent his fourth Major League team, offering a fresh opportunity for a player eager to make his mark in the world's premier baseball league.
As Pelota Cubana USA aptly summarized the move: "A new opportunity for Ibáñez in a team that needs functional pieces."
Key Details About Andy Ibáñez's Move to the Mets
Why did the Mets claim Andy Ibáñez off waivers?
The Mets claimed Andy Ibáñez off waivers to address their roster needs due to multiple injuries affecting key players. His versatility as a utility player makes him a valuable addition.
What positions can Andy Ibáñez play?
Andy Ibáñez is capable of playing multiple positions, including second base, third base, first base, and the outfield corners, providing flexibility to the Mets' lineup.
How has Andy Ibáñez performed in recent seasons?
In 2023, Ibáñez had a strong season with the Detroit Tigers, posting a wRC+ of 103. However, his performance declined in the subsequent years, with a combined average of .240 and a wRC+ of 85 in 2024 and 2025.