The New York Yankees signed veteran right-hander Adam Ottavino to a major league contract on Monday, days after designating the 39-year-old for assignment.
The team added Ottavino to the 25-man roster and optioned LHP Brent Headrick to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Ottavino pitched one-third inning in relief of starter Carlos Rodon in Monday's 6-2 loss to Detroit, walking two and striking out one on 17 pitches.
The Yankees DFA'd Ottavino to make room for RHP Devin Williams' return from the paternity list. Ottavino declined a minor-league assignment, becoming a free agent, leading to Monday's signing.
Financial terms were not released. He's expected to join the team in Detroit on Monday as the Yankees begin a three-game series against the Tigers.
Ottavino has now appeared in three games in relief for New York this season, striking out three in 1 2/3 innings.
Ottavino, who pitched for the Yankees from 2019-20, spent the past three seasons with the crosstown Mets. He is 41-43 with a 3.49 ERA and 46 saves in 726 career games (three starts) with the St. Louis Cardinals (2010), Colorado Rockies (2012-18), Yankees, Red Sox (2021) and Mets.
Headrick, 27, has appeared in four games (zero starts) this season. He has given up no runs and one hit while striking out nine in 5â…“ innings.
Field Level Media contributed to this report.
