The Milwaukee Brewers have claimed shortstop Hector Gomez off of waivers from the Colorado Rockies, reports Adam McCalvy of MLB.com.
The Brewers have claimed shortstop Hector Gomez off waivers from the Rockies and optioned him to advanced Class A Brevard County, adding more depth to one of Milwaukee’s thinnest positions.
In a corresponding roster move, the Brewers designated right-hander Brandon Kintzler for assignment.
McCalvy notes that Gomez has had a hard time staying healthy in the past.
Gomez, 24, has been plagued by injuries in his career. He fractured his shin on a foul ball on Opening Day at advanced Class A Modesto in 2008, then subsequently injured his right shoulder and his elbow, requiring Tommy John reconstructive surgery. He recovered from those injuries to play in two Major League games with the Rockies last September, but his 2012 Spring Training bid for a spot on that team ended when Gomez suffered a groin injury.
Over his seven seasons in the minors, Gomez is a .268/.306/.425 career hitter.
Kintzler appeared in nine games for the Brewers last season, posting an ERA and WHIP of 3.68 and 1.159 over his 14 2/3 innings of work. The 27-year-old has spent the 2012 season with the club’s High- and Double-A affiliates, maintaining an ERA and WHIP of 5.24 and 1.612 over his 22 1/3 innings.