MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins have selected the contract of outfielder Clete Thomas from Triple-A Rochester to give them a needed extra center fielder.

The Twins announced the move on Monday. Thomas gives manager Ron Gardenhire another player who can play center field while Wilkin Ramirez is on the disabled list with a concussion.

Rookie Aaron Hicks, who made the jump from Double-A to the majors this season, has played in 50 of the team's 54 games.

Thomas hit .296 with nine home runs and 25 RBIs for Rochester. The 28-year-old played in 12 games with the Twins last season.

To make room for Thomas on the 40-man roster, the Twins designated left-hander Tyler Robertson for release or assignment.