Nelson

Figueroa

Dave Williams, who was activated off the disabled list yesterday, is also being considered.

That could change if Salomon Torres is able to come off the DL.

If Kip Wells can avoid the DL Mark Corey figures to be sent down to make room for Figueroa.

Figueroa is worthy of a spot in the Pittsburgh pen. He might head right back to the minors tomorrow, though.

Evidently the Blue Jays must have cut him loose at some point over the last month, as he failed to make their team as a non-roster invitee but didn’t appear for them in the minors. Figueroa, who held an 8.69 ERA in 29 innings last year for the Astros, will offer the Yanks flexibility at Triple-A with the ability to start or relieve.

The 37-year-old reliever allowed two hits and issued two walks in two Grapefruit League innings, while striking out no one. Figueroa was a longshot to make the Blue Jays’ roster from the get-go after signing a minor league deal in January. He’ll try to make himself worthy of an in-season callup from afar at Triple-A Las Vegas.

Figueroa has an 8.25 ERA in 12 innings over three starts. He’ll probably make at least one more turn in place of John Van Benschoten.

He’d earn a $650,000 salary on the big league roster. Figueroa, 37, posted an ugly 8.69 ERA and a 17/16 K/BB ratio over 29 innings with the Astros last season before being granted his release in early-August. He’s likely a longshot to make the Opening Day roster.

Figueroa has had the misfortune of facing St. Louis in both of his starts since being called up last week. He pitched well in his first outing, but he could now be a candidate for demotion.

Figueroa had a 5.72 ERA in three starts and seven relief appearances after being called up on Aug. 20. He’d probably be a solid 12th pitcher if given another extended chance.