TAMPA -- The Yankees added one more arm to challenge for a spot in their bullpen mix on Tuesday, signing left-hander Ron Villone to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training.
Villone, 37, is expected to compete with Sean Henn to be the second southpaw behind Mike Myers on the Yankees' relief staff. He will wear uniform No. 47.
A native of Upper Saddle River, N.J., Villone made a career-high 70 appearances with the Yankees last season, compiling a 3-3 record and a 5.04 ERA in 80 1/3 innings, walking 72 and striking out 51.
He had declined salary arbitration from the club in December, leaving him available to pursue offers as a free agent.
Since breaking into the Major Leagues in 1995, Villone has compiled a career record of 55-57 over 543 games with the Mariners, Padres, Brewers, Indians, Reds, Rockies, Pirates, Marlins and Yankees.
Great news. Another solid pitcher brings the Yankees even better bullpen positions in 2007. Villone, Proctor, Vizcaino, Britton, Bruney, Karstens, Veras, the Yankees have plenty of options for the 'pen.
