The Kansas City Royals announced that they have claimed infielder Pedro Ciriaco off waivers from the San Diego Padres. The 27-year old was designated for assignment on Friday.
After being acquired from the Red Sox on June 14th, Ciriaco appeared in 23 games at shortstop and second base for the Padres. In 68 plate appearances, he hit .238 with 1 HR and 4 RBI. In 51 total games between the Sox and Padres on the season, Ciriaco has posted a .228 average with 2 HR and 8 RBI.
Ciriaco, who showed potential with his .293 average in 76 games with Boston in 2012, will provide infield depth for a Royals team that has lacked offensive production from the middle infield all season. After Chris Getz struggled to start the season, the team called up Johnny Giavotella from Triple-A Omaha at the end of June. In ten games, Giavotella has hit only .206, prompting the club to make another change at the position. Shortstop Alcides Escobar and third baseman Mike Moustakas have also hit poorly, hitting .246 and .215 respectively.
The versatile Ciriaco can play second base, shortstop and third base, and will try to help the Royals fill a major hole in their lineup.