MLB Hot Stove 2011: Chicago Cubs Claim Jeff Bianchi Off Waivers From Kansas City Royals

Read More: Jeff Bianchi (SS - MIL), Kansas City Royals, Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs made a minor move on Friday, claiming infielder Jeff Bianchi from the Kansas City Royals.

Bianchi, 25, is a career .281 hitter in six Minor League seasons with the Royals' organization. In 490 games, Bianchi has hit 116 doubles, 31 home runs and stolen 76 bases.

In 2011, his first full season in Double-A, Bianchi hit .259 after missing all of '10 while recovering from Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.

Bianchi's .259/.320/.333 in double-A following the surgery compared to a .315/.356/.441 line at double-A prior to the procedure. In six minor league seasons, Bianchi has a .281 batting average with 31 home runs. He was originally drafted by the Royals in the second round of the 2005 MLB draft.

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