Johnson claimed off waivers by Braves

KANSAS CITY -- Former Royals infielder Elliot Johnson on Wednesday was claimed off unconditional release waivers by the Atlanta Braves.

Johnson, who was acquired in the offseason trade that brought Wade Davis and James Shields to Kansas City from Tampa Bay, was designated for assignment last Thursday to make room for outfielder Emilio Bonifacio, who was acquired in a trade with Toronto. Johnson played in 79 games for the Royals and batted .179 with two home runs.

Johnson is set to join the Braves on Thursday in St. Louis.

"I know he's a good player," Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said. "I know we had a chance to get him off waivers. He's a guy that gives us some depth in the infield -- a guy that can steal you a base, switch-hitter."

Johnson gives the Braves another infielder after Tyler Pastornicky, who was supposed to be Atlanta's second baseman while Dan Uggula is on the disabled list, sustained a season-ending knee injury last Wendesday.