The Diamondbacks announced that they have designated infielder Tommy Manzella for assignment to create roster space for top pitching prospect Jarrod Parker. The D'Backs have 32 players on their active roster and their 40-man roster remains full.
Arizona claimed Manzella off of waivers in August, after the Astros designated him for assignment. The 28-year-old reported to Triple-A Reno and appeared in 22 games for the D'Backs' top affiliate. In 485 plate appearances for two Triple-A teams, Manzella hit .232/.315/.351 with eight home runs and 11 stolen bases this season.
Parker, a 2007 first round pick, entered the season as the #33 prospect in baseball, according to Baseball America. The 6'1" right-hander has the "stuff to become an ace," according to Baseball America, which placed him first among D'Backs prospects before the season. Parker pitched well in his first full year since undergoing Tommy John surgery in October of 2009. He posted a 3.79 ERA with 7.7 K/9 and 3.8 BB/9 in 130 2/3 innings at Double-A Mobile in '11.
