The Athletics made two minor roster moves today as they continue shaping their 2026 club.
First, the A’s claimed 32-year-old Cuban infielder Andy Ibáñez off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers. With their 40-man roster full, the club designated fellow infielder Max Schuemann for assignment to make room for Ibáñez.
Last month, the Dodgers signed Ibáñez to a one-year, $1.2 million contract, only to release him earlier this week when they reclaimed outfielder Mike Siani. They hoped to keep the out-of-options player in their organization, yet the A’s claimed him.
Ibáñez spent the last three seasons with the Detroit Tigers, carving out a role as a platoon utility player thanks to his .280 career batting average against left-handed pitching. In 2025, he accumulated four home runs and 21 RBIs in 91 games.
After trading for second baseman Jeff McNeil earlier this winter, the A’s acquired Ibáñez to compete with youngsters Darrell Hernaiz, Max Muncy and Brett Harris this spring for playing time at third base this year. All four candidates bat right handed, ruling out a third base platoon. Ibáñez also brings the defensive versatility the A’s value, with MLB experience at second base, first base, shortstop, and both corner outfield spots.
Unfortunately, Schuemann’s time with the franchise could be over unless he sneaks through waivers and returns as non-roster depth. Ibáñez’s arrival made Schuemann’s presence redundant as the club does not need that many offensively-challenged utility players.
Schuemann debuted in April 2024 and took over as the team’s starting shortstop for most of that season. However, Jacob Wilson’s emergence and Schuemann’s offensive struggles pushed him back into a part-time utility role last year. Given his defensive versatility and minor-league options remaining, another team will likely claim Schuemann on waivers unless they all bypass him due to his tepid offense.
In addition, the team reportedly agreed to a one-year, $2 million contract with free-agent right handed relief pitcher Scott Barlow. Entering his ninth season, Barlow brings vast experience pitching in late-game situations to what is otherwise an inexperienced A’s bullpen. Last year, he appeared in 75 games with the Cincinnati Reds, going 6-3 with a 4.21 ERA. This is a low-cost move that fills a need, although Barlow will have to limit the free passes and get over allowing Nick Kurtz’s monster 493 ft grand slam at Sutter Health Park in September. At the very least, he cannot be worse than José Leclerc.
What do you think of these two moves A’s fans? Are you sad to see Schuemann go or is it the right call to jettison him from the 40-man? Who should the A’s sign next?
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