The New York Yankees have signed veteran right-hander Paul Blackburn to a big-league contract, the team announced on Thursday afternoon. Blackburn has been added to the major-league roster, with the Yankees clearing a roster spot for him by optioning fellow right-handed pitcher Allan Winans to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

NEW YORK -- A week after his final appearance with the New York Mets, right-hander Paul Blackburn signed with the Yankees on Thursday to provide bullpen depth for the American League wild-card leaders.

The Mets have requested unconditional release waivers on right-hander Paul Blackburn, according to Mike Puma of The New York Post. Blackburn was designated for assignment on Saturday when the Mets called up Nolan McLean.