The Braves were awarded catcher Rene Rivera off waivers from the Angels, the teams announced Wednesday.
Rivera, 35, joins an organization lacking veteran catching depth. The Braves plan to carry three catchers when rosters expand Sept. 1, but after recently designating Chris Stewart for assignment, the team lacked a seasoned third option.
The Angels allowed Rivera to leave without compensation from the Braves. The team assumes his remaining salary, roughly $500K, through the end of the season. He will backup the Kurt Suzuki-Tyler Flowers tandem, more easily allowing whichever isn't catcher to pinch-hit later in games.
Known more for his defense, Rivera slashed .244/.287/.439 with four homers and 11 RBIs in 30 games. He's well-traveled, previously playing for the Mariners, Twins, Padres, Rays, Mets and Cubs.
The Braves will continue seeking bench help with two days until the waiver deadline.
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