Per MLBTradeRumors the Kansas City Royals have claimed left-handed relief pitcher Robert Fish off waivers from the New York Yankees. The 23 year-old Fish was selected by the Yankees from the Los Angeles Angels this winter in the Rule V draft. As you may recall, Royals closer Joakim Soria was a former Rule V pick from the San Diego Padres in 2006.
Originally a 6th round pick in the 2006 MLB draft out Montclair, California, Fish is a big 6'3" 225 lb reliever that will remind Royals fans somewhat of Sean O'Sullivan with his build. Fish was 5-5 last season with a 6.79 ERA in A and AA last season for the Halos. Fish featured a 11.9 strikeout-to-walk ratio with a 1.75 WHIP. Though the numbers don't look good, he was much better in A ball than he was in AA.
To make room for Fish on the 40-man roster, the Royals have moved Henry Barrera to the 60-day Disabled List. The Rule V regulations will apply to the Royals in that if he doesn't make the Royals Opening Day roster he must be offered back to Los Angeles for $25,000 or a trade must be agreed upon to allow Fish to join one of the Royals minor league affiliates.
You can view a video of Fish pitching here.