Dodgers Add Andy Ibáñez and Fitzgerald to Infield Mix

This article breaks down the Los Angeles Dodgers’ latest roster moves as they gear up for the new season. The signing of veteran infielder Andy Ibáñez and the waiver claim of Ryan Fitzgerald stand out.

With injuries, roster limits, and some positional uncertainty, these moves show how the Dodgers are quietly building their infield depth. They’re keeping their options open, as usual.

Dodgers Add Andy Ibáñez to Bolster Infield Depth

The Dodgers agreed to a one-year deal with Andy Ibáñez. He’s a versatile infielder with experience at several spots—just the kind of practical addition a contending team needs.

This isn’t the kind of move that grabs headlines, but it’s classic Dodgers. They’ve gotten good at these calculated signings over the years.

Ibáñez, 32, didn’t get a contract offer from the Detroit Tigers in November. That made him a low-risk pickup for a Dodgers club that values flexibility and matchup options.

His arrival brings an immediate logistical headache, though.

40-Man Roster Crunch Looms

On the same day Ibáñez agreed to terms, the Dodgers claimed Ryan Fitzgerald off waivers from the Minnesota Twins. Both players need spots on the 40-man roster.

Los Angeles will have to make another move before Ibáñez can officially join.

The Dodgers have gotten used to this kind of juggling. They know how to cycle the back end of the roster to maximize depth.

Infield Picture: Mostly Set, One Key Question

The Dodgers’ starting infield is mostly set. Freddie Freeman is locked in at first base, Max Muncy holds down third, and Mookie Betts is expected to stay at shortstop.

But that stability doesn’t reach every position.

Second Base Uncertainty to Start the Season

Second base remains the big question. Utilityman Tommy Edman is still recovering from offseason ankle surgery and will likely be delayed for Spring Training.

If Edman isn’t ready for Opening Day, the Dodgers need a stopgap—or maybe something more.

Internal options include:

Now, with Ibáñez in the fold, manager Dave Roberts has another name to consider. It gives him more combinations to play with, depending on who’s healthy and who’s performing.

What Andy Ibáñez Brings to the Dodgers

Last season with Detroit, Ibáñez played in 91 games, mostly at third base. He posted a .239 batting average with a .653 OPS.

He also spent time at Triple-A Toledo. Honestly, he profiles more as depth than as a regular starter.

A Proven Platoon Option

Ibáñez really stands out against left-handed pitching. Over five years in the majors, he’s hit .280 with a .778 OPS versus lefties.

That’s a big plus for a Dodgers team that loves to play the matchups.

He’s played every infield spot and even made a few outfield appearances. That kind of versatility is valuable during a long season.

Ryan Fitzgerald: Another Depth Play

Fitzgerald, 31, was designated for assignment by the Twins last week. He spent most of last season at Triple-A St. Paul.

There, he hit an impressive .277/.367/.469 while playing second base and shortstop.

Minor League Success, Limited MLB Impact

His big-league results were modest. He went 9-for-46 (.196) in 24 games with Minnesota.

The Dodgers, though, have a knack for getting value out of players with solid minor-league track records. It’s almost like they see something others miss, or maybe they just believe in second chances.

Andy Ibáñez might not be a star. In Los Angeles, though, depth can matter just as much.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Dodgers add Ibáñez (report), Fitzgerald to infield mix