Twelve players reassigned to Minor League camp

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The Giants began their early-spring housecleaning Thursday by reassigning 12 players to Minor League camp, including right-hander Kyle Crick, the organization's top prospect.

None of the moves was unexpected.

Besides Crick, whose lone spring appearance was a two-inning outing in a "B" game Monday against the Cubs, the Giants reassigned right-handers Clayton Blackburn, Chris Heston, Jose Casilla, Sandy Rosario and Rafael Dolis, catchers Jeff Arnold and Ben Turner, outfielders Mac Williamson and Javier Herrera, left-hander Ty Blach and infielder Joe Panik.

The Giants also optioned first baseman Angel Villalona to Triple-A Fresno.

With Minor League camp in full swing, these players will have the opportunity to perform without sharing the field with Major Leaguers.

"It's that time," manager Bruce Bochy said. "It's getting hard to get these guys the work and the at-bats they need."