Braves claim utility infielder Gotay off waivers from Mets

ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Braves claimed infielder Ruben Gotay off waivers from the New York Mets on Friday and sent first baseman Scott Thorman outright to Triple-A Richmond.

Gotay, who batted .295 with four homers and 24 RBI in 98 games for the Mets last season, will be on Atlanta's 25-man roster as a utility infielder. The Braves needed a backup infielder while Omar Infante recovers from a broken bone in his hand.

Thorman began last season as the Braves' starting first baseman but hit .216 with 11 homers and 36 RBI. He lost his starting job when Atlanta acquired Mark Teixeira.