The New York Mets have bolstered their bullpen by signing Jose Valverde to a Minor League contract.

Valverde will battle Kyle Farnsworth and a number of young arms for a spot in the Opening Day bullpen.

The 35-year-old threw only 19 1/3 innings in the big leagues last season, spending a chunk of the summer pitching for Triple-A Toledo after the Detroit Tigers designated him for assignment.