Clete Thomas Claimed by the Minnesota Twins

AFter being DFA by the Tigers on Thursday, making room for pitcher Drew Smyly, outfielder Clete Thomas was claimed by the Minnesota Twins. This meant the Tigers had 10 days to place him back on the 40 man roster, trade him, or give him an outright release. The Tigers placed Thomas on waivers, and manager Ron Gardenhire, who has always liked Clete, decided to take a chance on the 28 year old outfielder. For the struggling Twins, Thomas can provide versatility in the outfield at all three positions, and a left handed bat. Thomas’ 253/.336/.391 major league triple slash will play well as the Twins 4th OF, and he also provides some speed, with 148 minor league SB. Thomas, out of options, failed to beat out Andy Dirks for the last outfield spot this spring. He joins a Twins outfield of Ben Revere, Denard Span, Josh Willingham, and Trevor Plouffe. Plouffe, who has plenty of infield experience, should see more time in the IF, and as a super-utility player.