ANAHEIM, Calif. — The Los Angeles Angels have requested waivers on 19-year veteran outfielder and designated hitter Raul Ibanez for the purpose of giving him his unconditional release.
The highlight of his brief stay with them was on April 12 when he hit a tying three-run homer with two out in the bottom of the ninth inning against the New York Mets’ Jose Valverde for his 2,000th career hit.
The Angels also optioned right-hander Cam Bedrosian to Class AA Arkansas, after he gave up nine runs, eight hits and seven walks in 52/3 innings over his first six big league appearances. Infielder Efren Navarro was recalled from Class AAA Salt Lake.
Ibanez, the second-oldest player in the majors behind Jason Giambi, batted .157 with three homers and 21 RBI in 190 plate appearances for the Angels after signing a one-year deal for $2.75 million during the offseason.
“Raul’s going to be tough to replace in the clubhouse. He brings so many intangibles,” manager Mike Scioscia said. “We’ve got some young kids, but it’s a tough day for us. Raul’s a great competitor and a terrific person, and we’ll definitely miss him. Like anybody, there was disappointment. He’s very accountable. He knows he didn’t do what he wanted for us. He took it with what you’d expect for a guy with his class.”
Ibanez’ career has included three stints with the Seattle Mariners, including last season when he hit .242 with 29 home runs and 65 RBI.
He also played for Kansas City, Philadelphia and the New York Yankees. His career average is .273 with 303 homers and 1,202 RBI.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
