Former Minnesota Twins player Chris Parmelee has found a new home.
Multiple sources report the former Twins reserve outfielder/first baseman has agreed to a minor league contract with the Baltimore Orioles.
Parmelee was dropped by the Twins last month to clear a roster sport for Ervin Santana. The former first-round draft pick made a big splash during his debut in September of 2011, but since had hit just .238 with 20 homers in 252 games from 2012-2014.
Parmelee’s contract with the Orioles includes an invitation to Spring Training.
According to Hardball Talk, Parmelee, 27, has enough power and plate discipline to be useful as a part-time first baseman or corner outfielder, but he doesn’t offer much upside beyond that.
The Orioles have a history of picking up former Twins – including Delmon Young, Alexi Casilla, Danny Valencia, Alex Burnett, Jason Pridie, Lew Ford, J.C. Romero, Steve Tolleson, Luis Ayala, Jim Thome and J.J. Hardy.
Baltimore’s interest in Parmelee began as soon as he was waived by the Twins.
Chris Parmelee has hit .345 in 12 career games against #Orioles. Team also saw a lot of him in spring training with #Twins. #OriolesTalk
— Rich DubroffMLB (@RichDubroffMLB) January 26, 2015
1500 ESPN notes that Parmelee will compete for a spot on a roster that already includes Chris Davis, Steve Pearce, Davod Lough, Alejandro De Aza and Young.
#Orioles had been interested in Parmelee since he was outrighted by Minnesota last month, has a real chance to make the team. #OriolesTalk
— Rich DubroffMLB (@RichDubroffMLB) January 26, 2015
