The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially released Andre Lipcius after he cleared waivers, as noted in the team’s recent transaction report. This move has now made Lipcius a free agent, granting him the freedom to negotiate and sign with any team of his choosing.
Lipcius’s tenure with the Dodgers began in March when he was acquired from the Detroit Tigers in exchange for cash considerations. This trade was aimed at strengthening the team’s infield depth. Despite the expectations, Lipcius spent the entirety of the 2024 season with the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City rather than making an appearance in the Major Leagues. Over 140 games in Triple-A, he delivered a strong performance with a .271/.351/.458 batting line, racking up 26 doubles, two triples, 25 home runs, and 89 RBIs in 636 plate appearances.
Reflecting on his trade to the Dodgers, Lipcius expressed excitement and gratitude. “It was kind of crazy getting a call after being DFA’ed. I get a call, and they said, ‘You’ve been traded to the Dodgers.’ I was ecstatic because these guys are known to be the best organization in baseball, and I was stoked to get over here,” he shared. He also revealed that the Dodgers had been eyeing him for several years, which bolstered his confidence and enthusiasm. “It means a ton, especially for an organization like this. Knowing that they’ve wanted me here for a couple of years means so much. I was thrilled to come over here,” Lipcius added.
A third-round draft pick by the Tigers in 2019 out of the University of Tennessee, Lipcius made his MLB debut with Detroit on September 1, 2023. He quickly made an impression by hitting his first career home run just a day later. In his brief stint with the Tigers, he played in 13 games, primarily at third base (11 games), with two appearances as a designated hitter. Lipcius concluded the 2023 MLB season with a solid .286/.342/.400 batting line, including one double and one home run.
Lipcius also showcased his versatility during the 2023 minor league season, appearing in 105 games and slashing .273/.365/.423. Over that stretch, he demonstrated his adaptability by playing multiple positions: first base (33 games), second base (31 games), third base (19 games), and even left field (14 games). Despite his utility and solid numbers, the Tigers designated him for assignment on February 29, paving the way for his eventual trade to the Dodgers.
While Lipcius’s time in the Dodgers’ system did not lead to a Major League call-up, his Triple-A performance could draw interest from other teams seeking an experienced and versatile infield option. Now a free agent, Lipcius has the opportunity to explore new opportunities and potentially reestablish himself as a valuable asset at the Major League level.
The Dodgers’ decision to part ways with Lipcius likely stems from the organization’s crowded infield roster and the need to manage their 40-man roster effectively. As one of the most resourceful and competitive franchises in baseball, the Dodgers continually evaluate their talent pool to maintain a balance between established stars and emerging prospects. Unfortunately for Lipcius, he became a roster casualty in this process.
Despite the setback, Lipcius’s journey highlights his perseverance and potential. His ability to play multiple positions, coupled with his consistent offensive contributions in the minors, positions him as an intriguing option for teams seeking depth and flexibility. Whether another organization picks him up for a utility role or he secures a more permanent position, Lipcius’s baseball journey continues, and his best days may yet be ahead.
