Blue Jays sign Clippard to minor-league contract

The Toronto Blue Jays announced Wednesday the signing of right-hander Tyler Clippard to a minor-league contract with an invite to major-league spring training.

Clippard, 33, was well-traveled last season, appearing in games for the Yankees, White Sox, and Astros. In 67 appearances, he was 2-8 with a 4.77 ERA across 60 1/3 innings.

The former closer, who saved 32 games for the Washington Nationals in 2012, struck out hitters at a high rate (10.7 SO/9) in 2017 but also issued 4.6 walks per nine.

Clippard will compete for a spot in the Blue Jays' bullpen this spring alongside other non-roster invites like John Axford, Al Alburquerque, and Craig Breslow.