O'Brien was claimed off waivers by the Reds and optioned to Triple-A Louisville on Tuesday.
EDGE Analysis
O'Brien was designated for assignment by the Royals last week after slashing just .162/.235/.276 over the first 27 games at Triple-A. Although he has seen time in the majors over the previous two seasons, his .176 batting average with 32 strikeouts in 74 at-bats will likely keep him as organizational depth. Pitcher Brandon Finnegan (shoulder) was transferred to the 60-day disabled list to clear room on the roster for O'Brien.