Minnesota Twins outfielder/first baseman Chris Parmelee has rejected his minor league assignment and will test free agency.
The Twins outrighted Parmelee to Triple A Rochester last week giving him the chance to decide.
According to 1500 ESPN, Parmelee really didn’t fit into the Twins’ plans any longer, as they will likely use a combination of Joe Mauer, Kennys Vargas, Torii Hunter, Oswaldo Arcia and maybe even Miguel Sano to occupy first base, designated hitter and the corner outfield spots.
So Parmelee chose to move on.
The Pioneer Press notes Parmelee was drafted by the Twins with their first round pick in 2006 out of Chino Hills (California) High School. In 901 major league at bats, he hit .249 with a .317 on base percentage and a .392 slugging percentage. Parmelee has hit 24 home runs in the majors and 101 in the minors.
After nine years in the Twins organization Chris Parmelee opted for free agency rather than spending another season at Triple-A Rochester.
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) December 29, 2014
Last season, in 87 games with the Twins, Parmelee hit .256 with seven home runs.
Parmelee will likely get a chance to latch on with another organization, possibly the Dodgers.
According to Puckett’s Pond, he brings the ability to play multiple positions, but lacks the speed or arm strength of a fourth outfielder. The blog suggests Parmelee will likely have to accept a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training.
