The Cincinnati Reds designated outfielder Bubba Thompson for assignment earlier this week to free up a spot on the 40-man roster for right-handed pitcher Brett Kennedy. Thompson had been targeted for assignment several times throughout his career, and he was always claimed. This time, however, he cleared waivers and was outrighted to Double-A Chattanooga. That’s where he was optioned earlier this month.
Sometimes a player can refuse their contract and become a free agent. As far as I can determine, Bubba Thompson has never been outrighted. If a player has already been outrighted, they have the power to decline any similar outrights in the future.
Thompson struggled this season in the major leagues. He appeared in 17 games, but only saw 18 plate appearances because he was employed more as a pinch runner or defensive replacement than a bat. He finished 2-for-18 with a double, five stolen bases, no walks, and 11 strikeouts. That was sufficient for a.111/.111/.167 line.
After being optioned to the minor levels, he started 0-12 with Chattanooga. That’s hardly surprising given that he hadn’t batted against live pitching in a game in two and a half weeks before joining the Lookouts. He’s been hitting well since then, going 7-for-22 with a double, home run, and two walks. Thompson, who was designated for assignment and did not play for a few days, should return to the Reds’ Double-A squad soon.
