Ciriaco excited to help Royals' playoff push

KANSAS CITY -- Shortstop Pedro Ciriaco has been with three different Major League teams this season. On Tuesday, after being recalled by the Royals, he said he's always pleased to get another opportunity.

"I feel great," Ciriaco said. "I'm here to help the team and right now we are pushing for the playoffs, and I am happy to be here."

Ciriaco started the season with Boston and was traded to San Diego before being claimed off waivers by Kansas City on July 16.

On the depth chart, Ciriaco is slated behind Alcides Escobar, who's started all but four games this season at shortstop. Former Royal Elliot Johnson made the other four starts.

"In case we pinch-hit for Escobar, we've got a fill-in at short," manager Ned Yost said.

In the Major Leagues, Ciriaco has started 35 games at third base, 15 at shortstop and 11 at second base. He's also appeared at each position in the outfield.