Isle of Youth native Andy Ibáñez received some positive news amid an extremely challenging 2026 season, signing a minor league contract with the Seattle Mariners on Monday, August 17. It marks his fourth organization of the year. The move was confirmed by journalist Francys Romero on social media.
Ibáñez originally signed a one-year, $1.2 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers on January 13. The move drew attention because of the loaded roster assembled by the organization, which made it difficult to envision a long stay with the club.
That proved to be the case, as less than a month later he was designated for assignment. His versatility and five seasons of Major League experience still generated interest around the league, and he was claimed off waivers a few days later by the Athletics.
Ibáñez reached the Majors with the Athletics, but after going 2-for-17 (.118), he was once again designated for assignment. He was then claimed by the New York Mets, where it initially appeared he might have a better opportunity.
He was quickly promoted to the Major Leagues, but struggled again, going 0-for-6 before another designation for assignment. He was then sent to the Mets’ Triple-A affiliate. Although Ibáñez hit .269 in 31 games, he ultimately did not convince the organization to keep him and on August 13, he was released by the Mets.
All indications are that Ibáñez will initially be assigned to Seattle’s Triple-A affiliate. There, he could join fellow Cubans Lázaro Montes and Víctor Labrada. Ibáñez can provide them with valuable knowledge from his Major League experience while also trying to revive his own career in a highly competitive environment.