After nine seasons in the Twins organization and 273 major league games, first baseman/outfielder Chris Parmelee's Minnesota career came to an end Monday when he elected to become a free agent.
Parmelee, a Twins first-round pick in 2006, was designated for assignment on Dec. 13. After clearing waivers, Parmelee was assigned to Class AAA Rochester, but he exercised his right to refuse the assignment and seek a contract with another team.
Parmelee rose through the Twins system and had a strong season at Rochester in 2012, hitting 17 home runs in 64 games. But he could never repeat that success in the major leagues, batting .249 over parts of four seasons, with 24 total home runs.
• Catcher Eric Fryer, outrighted to Rochester when the Twins signed pitcher Tim Stauffer last week, has accepted the assignment and will play for the Red Wings.
