Royals claim Quintin Berry off waivers from Tigers

The Kansas City Royals announced Tuesday that they have claimed outfielder Quintin Berry off waivers from the Detroit Tigers. Berry, who was designated for assignment by Detroit on Sunday, was optioned to Triple-A Omaha.

Berry, who was originally a fifth round pick of the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2006 draft, bounced around the Phillies, Padres, Mets, and Reds organizations before signing with the Tigers as a minor league free agent in 2011. He was called up to the majors in May of 2012, and hit .258 with 2 HR, 29 RBI, and 21 stolen bases in 94 games on the season. In 49 games for Triple-A Toledo so far this season, Berry has a .168 average with 1 HR, 15 RBI, and 15 stolen bases.

Due to Berry's struggles in the minors, many assumed that he would clear waivers and stay in the Tigers organization, but the Royals decided that the 28-year old was worthy of a 40-man roster spot. They will stash him at Triple-A Omaha for the near future in hopes that his speed and above-average outfield defense may be valuable as the season progresses.