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Tigers Designate Clete Thomas for Assignment

By Nate A.
March 16, 2012; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; Detroit Tigers outfielder Clete Thomas (36) at bat in the first inning against the New York Mets during a spring training game at Digital Domain Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE
March 16, 2012; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; Detroit Tigers outfielder Clete Thomas (36) at bat in the first inning against the New York Mets during a spring training game at Digital Domain Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE

The Detroit Tigers have designated Clete Thomas for assignment, reports of James Schmehl of MLive.com.

The part-time outfielder was dropped from the roster to make room for lefty starter Drew Smyly, who will make his Major League debut Thursday night in place of the injured Doug Fister.

Thomas' DFA means that the Tigers have 10 days to trade him before he becomes waiver eligible. If Thomas goes unclaimed, which is unlikely, Detroit can then assign him to Triple-A.

The 28-year-old Thomas appeared in three games for the Tigers this season, including today's game, but did not have an at-bat.

Thomas hit .253/.336/.391 in 433 career plate appearances stretched over three seasons with the Tigers, though his last two seasons were spent at Triple-A.

Any team that claims Thomas off of waivers will have to add him to their 40-man roster.

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