A switch hitter who threw right-handed, Claus stands 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) tall and weighs 170 lb (77 kg).
He graduated from Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and attended Seminole Community College, Indian River Community College and the University of North Florida, where he played varsity baseball and received a bachelor's degree in management.
[1] He then rejoined the Angels as a scout and minor league coach with affiliates ranging from the Rookie level to Double-A.
His Portland clubs included prospects such as Hanley Ramírez, Dustin Pedroia, Jonathan Papelbon, Jon Lester, and Jacoby Ellsbury.
Claus' and LeVangie's scouting reports were credited with helping Boston win the 2007 American League title and 2007 World Series.