MLB 2023 | Adolis wanted to represent Cuba in the WBC, Ibáñez will be in a reserve role for Detroit

Major League Baseball (MLB) and other Cuban Players News for the 2022-2023 offseason. A compendium from several sources

(Photo: Jerome Miron/USA TODAY Sports)

Ranger' Adolis García wanted to play for Cuba in the 2023 WBC

Texas Rangers outfielder Adolis García told the Dallas Morning News that he was interested in representing Cuba in the World Baseball Classic. Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News reports that Adolis was approached by the Cuban Federation to compete for Team Cuba at the World Baseball Classic. However, it didn't work out. As much as Adolis wanted to play, he did not have enough time to leave the Rangers camp for more than two weeks, despite his desire to do so. The interest was mutual and had nothing to do with issues with the Cuban national team or playing time. It was in 2016 that Adolis made his professional baseball debut for the Yomiuri Giants in Japan. During the same year, he left Cuba. His MLB debut came in 2018 after signing with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2017. In early 2019, the Rangers acquired him for cash considerations. He was named as a reserve for the American League in the 2021 MLB All-Star Game after spending some time in the minor leagues, including being designated for assignment. As a rookie in 2021, he batted .243/.286/.454 and led all rookies with 90 RBIs. In addition, he hit 31 home runs. With 27 home runs, 101 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases last season, Adolis slashed .250/.300/.456. Last season, he was one of two Rangers with at least 25 home runs and 25 stolen bases. Marcus Semien was the other.

Tigers' Andy Ibáñez: Vying for reserve role

MLive.com's Evan Woodbery reports that Ibáñez is in the running for a reserve position on Detroit's Opening Day roster. In November, Detroit claimed Ibáñez off waivers and outrighted him to Triple-A Toledo. Last season, the 29-year-old played in 40 games for the Rangers, slashing .218/.273/.277. Despite the fact that it sounds like he may make the MLB roster, he is unlikely to have a prominent role with the Tigers. Ibáñez has committed to playing for Cuba in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.