Thomas coming back to Tigers; Kelly heading back to minors

Clete Thomas coming back to Tigers; Don Kelly heading back to minors
by Steve Kornacki
Tuesday July 07, 2009, 10:57 PM

DETROIT -- Detroit swapped left-handed hitting outfielders after Tuesday night's game, calling up Clete Thomas from Toledo and designating Don Kelly for assignment.

Kelly, who also played third base, was hitting .250 with one triple, three doubles and three RBIs in 48 at-bats.

Thomas was batting .357 in his past 21 games for the Mud Hens, and .295 overall with one homer and 17 RBIs.

He hit .237 with four homers and 17 RBIs for Detroit earlier this season, and was sent to Toledo to cut down on the length of his swing and make better contact.

Tigers manager Jim Leyland said Thomas will play Wednesday against Kansas City.

"We're hoping to catch lightning in a bottle," Leyland said. "He gives us a spark from time to time. Is he ready? I don't know. But he has a live bat, a loud bat. He plays good defense and makes good throws."

On Tigers Live when they said, ooo here comes a roster change and had DD speak, I was a little concerned! But this seems a legit move. Clete be on FIYAH!