Jerry

Gil

Gil, who played in 29 games for Arizona last season, will be Triple-A Tucson’s starting shortstop.

Gil is a former infielder turned relief pitcher who figures to provide depth at the Triple-A level. Bocock projects as an end-of-the-roster type in Toronto’s farm system after a short-lived major league career.

The Diamondbacks might be looking to motivate Alex Cintron with this move. Gil was hitting .276/.297/.463 as Tucson’s shortstop. He’s not really a prospect, but he could get some playing time if Cintron fails to step up.

The deal includes a spring training invite. Gil, a converted infielder, had a 4.92 ERA and 51/20 K/BB ratio over 64 innings last season with the Blue Jays’ Triple-A affiliate. He will likely function as organizational depth in 2013.

Gil was given that news on Thursday afternoon in camp. He allowed two earned runs in 4 2/3 Cactus League innings and will report to Triple-A Columbus in April.

The recovery period won’t get more specific until surgeons assess the damage. Gil was third on the depth chart at shortstop behind Royce Clayton and Alex Cintron. If he misses the start of the minor league season, Sergio Santos will move up to Triple-A Tucson.

They could have just designated him for assignment, but even though Gil shouldn’t have any part in the Diamondbacks’ future plans, the team must feel he’ll eventually be a useful player for someone. We’re skeptical.

It’s a 10-day assignment, so he’s getting closer to returning from his knee injury.

Gil has been playing with Double-A Tennessee on a rehab assignment as he recovers from a knee injury. The Diamondbacks also sent Justin Wechsler outright to Double-A Tennessee to make room for yesterday’s additions.

Gil is out for the season following Tommy John surgery this month.