According to Dick Kaegel of MLB.com, the Kansas City Royals have claimed right-handed pitcher Kanekoa Texeira off of waivers. Kanekoa was designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday. The Royals designated right-hander Brad Thompson for assignment to make room for Kanekoa.

Kanekoa, 24 was 0-1 with a 5.30 ERA in 16 relief appearances for the Mariners. Because Kanekoa was obtained by the Mariners from the New York Yankees in the Rule 5 Draft, he must remain with the Big League club or be offered back to the Yankees before he can be sent to the Minors.