SAN FRANCISCO -- The first player picked up by Farhan Zaidi will get a shot in the big leagues.
The Giants called up outfielder Mike Gerber, as first reported by NBC Sports Bay Area, while designating veteran Gerardo Parra for assignment to clear a spot. To open up a roster spot for Tyler Beede, Friday night's starter, catcher Erik Kratz was put on the Injured List with a hamstring strain.
Gerber, 26, was picked up off waivers from the Detroit Tigers in December. The Giants liked his plate discipline and ability to play all three outfield spots, and he had a nice spring. Gerber was designated for assignment in January but got through waivers and had a strong start to the Triple-A season.
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In 21 games, Gerber has a .357 average, six homers and seven doubles. He has a 1.057 OPS, although he does have 27 strikeouts to just five walks.
Parra opened the season as the left fielder and has gotten most of the time there, but he was batting just .198. Kratz is hitting just .133 and the Giants called up Stephen Vogt on Wednesday to serve as the backup catcher.