Michael Tonkin: Everything you need to know

Tonkin cleared waivers Thursday and elected free agency, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. After being called up from Triple-A in late July, Tonkin posted a 4.88 ERA and 1.17 WHIP over 24 innings with the Twins. Now having lost his place on the 40-man roster, the 35-year-old will test his value in free agency, though he isn't likely to attract more than a minor-league deal.

The Twins selected Tonkin's contract from Triple-A St. Paul on Monday. Tonkin has spent all of this season in the minors, posting a 4.82 ERA but a much more promising 34:7 K:BB over 28 innings with St. Paul. He will give manager Rocco Baldelli a fresh bullpen arm.

Tonkin (biceps) has been activated from the 60-day injured list and has accepted an assignment to Triple-A St. Paul, Phil Miller of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports. Tonkin began the season on the shelf due to a strained right shoulder before experiencing biceps tendinitis during a rehab assignment. While he's finally healthy, Tonkin will continue at the Triple-A level.