This post was originally posted at http://troystwinsdugout.wordpress.com/2012/04/14/introducing-clete-thomas/

Earlier today, the Twins announced that they've claimed Clete Thomas from the Detroit Tigers. To make room on the 25 man roster, the Twins optioned Ben Revere to AAA Rochester after the Twins 6-2 loss to Texas. Thomas will replace Revere as the fourth outfielder and provide some speed on the basepaths off the bench.

In 593 minor league games, Thomas has a batting line of .267/.348/.399 with 41 HR, 246 RBI and 344 runs scored. He's stolen 148 bases and has only been caught 44 times.

Not only does Thomas have plenty of minor league experience, but he's also played in 145 games in a Tiger uniform where he batted .253/.336/.391. He's only hit 8 HR with 48 RbI and 54 runs scored in parts of 3 seasons with the Tigers. He only played in 3 games iwth the Tigers This year before he was reassigned to AAA Toledo.

One of the key reasons for the move was the Twins were short in the outfield at Rochester due to Rene Revera being on the Disabled List. Drew Butera has had to fill in some out there. Also, it provides Revere an opportunity to play every day.

As long as it doesn't hamper any positive moves, and as long as the Twins are willing to get rid of him at any time, this is okay. Get Revere the AAA time he needs. Unfortunately, the Twins, as usual, cannot be counted on for understanding this, and we already have our first indication they might think a 28 yr old with mediocre minor league stats is actually viable:

"I'm not surprised it was the Twins," Leyland said. "Gardy (Twins' manager Ron Gardenhire) has always loved him."

I'm sure Gardy recalls the one homer and two triples Thomas has hit against the Twins. The same way he recalled how difficult it was for Joe Mauer to hit Dusty Hughes. Revere gets to play everyday for now. Hopefully that's all this is about.