Mariners and Yankees sign relief pitchers to minor league deals

The Seattle Mariners and New York Yankees have both signed relief pitchers to minor league contracts to bolster their organizational depth.

Scott Effross has signed a minor league deal with the Mariners and has reported to their Triple-A affiliate in Tacoma. The 32-year-old right-hander previously played for the Detroit Tigers this season. Effross has faced various injury challenges, including Tommy John surgery and back surgery, in recent years.

Justin Topa has signed a minor league contract with the Yankees and has been assigned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Topa, a veteran reliever with experience in the Brewers, Mariners, and Twins organizations, joins the Yankees' system following a difficult start to the 2026 season with Minnesota. His signing follows injuries to Yankees relievers Angel Chivilli and Kervin Castro.