The Detroit Tigers did not offer Andy Ibanez a new contract for the upcoming season, so the 32-year-old Cuban native will automatically become a free agent as did Adolis García, who was also non tendered by Texas Rangers. Outfielder Pedro León was also claimed off waivers by the Phillies. All transactions were reported by the colleague Francys Romero.
Last season, Ibáñez, who has experience in two World Baseball Classics with Cuba, played 91 games for Detroit. He played all four infield positions for the team as well as left field. Ibáñez batted .239 (176 AB; 42 H) with eight doubles, four home runs, and 21 RBIs. The native of the Isle of Youth will also represent Cuba in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
García, who was the ALCS MVP in 2023 with Texas hit slashed .227/.271/.394/.665 with 19 homeruns, 75 runs batted in and 13 stolen bases. The outfielder from Ciego de Ávila, Cuba was also nominated for a gold glove in the American League. Over his seven-year seasons on the grand stage García has slugged 145 longballs and has been named to two All-Star Games.
León, a native of Quivicán (Mayabeque), signed with the Houston Astros in 2021 and made his Major League debut last year (7 games). In 2025, he only played 25 games in the Minor Leagues due to injuries. He was once a top prospect for the Astros, but gradually lost value within the organization. Now, at 27 years old, he will have new opportunities with the Phillies. On November 6, the Orioles claimed him off waivers from the Astros. Three days ago, Baltimore designated him for assignment again, and now the Phillies have claimed him.