Angels claim J.C. Gutierrez off waivers from Royals

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have claimed reliever J.C. Gutierrez off waivers from the Kansas City Royals, according to a report from MLB.com's Alden Gonzalez. Gutierrez was designated for assignment by the Royals ten days ago and will be added to the Angels' 40-man roster.

In 25 games with the Royals this season, the 30-year old is 0-1 with a 3.38 ERA, 5.2 K/9, and 2.5 BB/9 in 29.1 innings of work. He has posted the best season of his major league career, and his fastball velocity has reached a career high of 95 mph.

In five major league seasons with the Astros (2007), Diamondbacks (2009-2011) and Royals (2013), Gutierrez is 5-11 with a 4.58 ERA, 7.7 K/9, and 3.5 BB/9. He was Arizona's closer in 2010, when he posted a 5.08 ERA and 15 saves in 58 appearances.

The Angels will have to clear a 40-man roster spot for Gutierrez, who may join the major league bullpen.