The New York Yankees have signed left-handed slugger Jack Cust to a minor-league contract, reports WFAN's Sweeny Murti.

Cust, who was released by the Houston Astros on Tuesday, is likely to compete for at-bats as the Yankees left-handed designated hitter. The Yankees signed Raul Ibanez with the idea that he would seize the left-handed DH spot, but the 39-year old has struggled immensely during spring training. In 42 at-bats, Ibanez has managed just three hits for a .071 average to go along with just one home run and 4 RBI.

Cust, who batted .213 with three home runs last season in 225 at-bats with the Seattle Mariners, has also spent time at first base and in the outfield. The 33-year-old hit a career-high 33 home runs with the Oakland Athletics in 2008, when he led the MLB in both bases on balls and strikeouts.

For more on the Yankees, be sure to check out Pinstripe Alley and SB Nation New York for all your needs.