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.

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. Blackburn was originally supposed to be with the Yankees for Wednesday's game against the Rays at Steinbrenner Field but encountered extensive flight delays in Texas after flying in from Idaho.

The Yankees have signed right-handed pitcher Paul Blackburn, who was released last week by the Mets after being designated for assignment and clearing waivers.