DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers optioned struggling infielder Andy Ibáñez to Triple-A Toledo on Friday.

To take his spot, the Tigers selected the contract of utility man Jahmai Jones from Toledo.

To create a 40-man roster spot for Jones, outfielder Akil Baddoo was designated for assignment.

Ibáñez, 32, was a playoff hero for the Tigers last October and is in his third season as the club’s primary right-handed hitting utility man. His value has come from excellent defense and an ability to hit left-handed pitching.

But he has endured a rough month, going 6-for-40 with 10 strikeouts since May 9 . He’s also struggled against southpaws -- an issue that’s become more glaring when he’s called on to pinch-hit for slugger Kerry Carpenter in key situations.

“It was an encouraging message (to

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