DETROIT - The Detroit Tigers have claimed first baseman-outfielder Marc Krauss off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays.

Manager Brad Ausmus expected Krauss to join the team in Seattle, where the Tigers start a series Monday night, although he hadn't arrived at Safeco Field when the skipper addressed the media before the game.

"Gives us another first-base option and a left-handed bat," Ausmus said.

Detroit will wait to announce a corresponding move until Krauss joins the club.

The Tigers recently lost slugging first baseman Miguel Cabrera to a strained calf that put him on the disabled list.

Ausmus said he'll initially use Krauss against right-handed pitching and right-handed hitter Jefry Marte versus lefties. Andrew Romine will also get time at first.

The 27-year-old Krauss has played for the Angels and Rays this season, batting a combined .133 with one home run in 15 games. Krause has played 134 big league games in past three seasons with three teams. He has batted .192 with 11 home runs and 117 strikeouts.