Veteran RHP Joe Nathan agrees to minor-league deal with Giants

SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants and 41-year-old right-hander Joe Nathan agreed Tuesday to a minor-league contract.

Nathan is attempting to extend his major league career after his second Tommy John surgery in 2015. He will report to the Giants' Double-A team in Richmond.

Nathan, who spent the first four seasons of his major league career with the Giants, has pitched only two innings this season and was released by the Chicago Cubs.

San Francisco needs bullpen help. Closer Santiago Casilla's job probably is safe but Nathan, who has 377 saves, could provide help in middle relief or in a set-up role.

"He brings you an experienced veteran," Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. "Joe's going to stay on the East Coast right now and give us a chance to take a look, evaluate him. But you have to like what his resume has on it. This guy is an experienced closer and those guys, they're invaluable."