Mar 28, 2021; Surprise, Arizona, USA; Texas Rangers third baseman Andy Ibanez bats against the Chicago Cubs during the second inning of a spring training game at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Called up to the Major League roster following Brock Holt’s move to the injured list (strained right hamstring), longtime Texas Rangers minor leaguer Andy Ibanez finally made his MLB debut last night. Pinch-hitting for David Dahl in the top of the ninth inning, Ibanez slapped a ground ball right past the outstretched glove of Andrelton Simmons.
Considering the high-stress nature of the situation, you can only tip your cap to Ibanez for coming in and doing a job:
Ibanez’ first career knock moved the tying run over to second base, a run that would eventually be driven in by Isiah Kiner-Falefa via a sacrifice fly.