The Royals announced today they have claimed catcher George Kottaras off waivers from the Oakland Athletics. Kottaras, 29, is a left-handed hitting catcher known for his on-base skills. Last year in just 209 plate appearances, he hit .211/.351/.415 with 37 walks. Those 37 walks would have been fifth on the entire Royals club. In just in 209 plate appearances.

Kottaras split time last year with the Brewers and Athletics, and has also spent time with the Red Sox after originally coming up through the Padres system. In 694 Major League plate appearances, he has hit .220/.320/.412. Kottaras has a reputation as a very weak defensive catcher, and has thrown out just 16% of would-be base-stealers in his career.

Kottaras joins Brett Hayes as the candidates to backup Salvador Perez at catcher. The Royals are obligated to pay Kottaras his $1 million salary for this year. Kottaras is under team control through 2015. To make room for Kottaras, the Royals designated infielder Tony Abreu for assignment.