In the build-up to the MLB trade deadline, the Detroit Tigers are looking to acquire a new third baseman, among other needs on the roster. As a result of landing more help offensively, the Tigers will need to make some tough roster decisions.
For Devon Platana of Detroit Jock City, the Tigers should move on from versatile infielder Andy Ibanez to open up a roster spot. Due to his struggles this season, and his roster spot becoming valuable in a trade, Platana is urging the team to ship him off.
“When it comes to Tigers who could potentially be shipped out before the July 31 deadline,” Platana writes. “Versatile veteran Andy Ibanez is likely near the top of the list.”
Ibanez is 32 years old and in his fifth season in the Major Leagues. It’s his third in Detroit, and despite having decent 2023 and 2024 seasons, his production this year hasn’t been great.
Across his 46 games played, Ibanez has a .213 batting average, a .292 on-base percentage, and a .319 slugging percentage. His .612 OPS is the worst of his Tigers tenure.
A year ago in 2024, he had a .652 OPS, and in 2023, his OPS was .744. He hasn’t been the same this season, as he’s struggled mightily offensively. Fortunately for the Tigers, they haven’t needed him, as the team is atop the American League.
MORE: Tigers trade proposal lands Alex Bregman in dream trade deadline move
But, as Platana writes, the Tigers could be on the verge of moving him. “The 32-year-old trade candidate has been with Detroit since he was claimed off waivers during the 2022-23 offseason; however, it’s beginning to look like he’s worn out his time in the Motor City.
While Detroit could send him down to the minor leagues, Platana believes a trade is worth it. Opening a roster spot and adding a minor leaguer, even if they aren’t a top prospect, would be a better use of resources.
If Detroit is planning to land a star at the deadline, moving Ibanez for a prospect would be a helpful move to make. With the impending departure of prospects due to trades, Ibanez could net younger prospects worth taking a chance on.
At 32 years old, Ibanez doesn’t have much future projection in the Major League for Detroit. Finding a trade partner, even if it’s only for a low-ranked prospect, would be a move worth doing.
Whether Platana’s idea occurs or not, Ibanez likely is out of time on the Tigers roster. The team is transitioning to a new era of baseball, and Ibanez, a struggling veteran who hasn’t hit the ball well, is a prime candidate to be moved at some point in the future.
MORE MLB NEWS:
