Report: Yankees sign Phillips to minor-league deal as pitcher

The New York Yankees are signing Brett Phillips to a minor-league contract as a pitcher, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports.

Phillips is trying to return to the majors as a pitcher, making an impressive appearance for the GPS Legends in the National Baseball Conference World Series on Monday. He hit 97 mph with his fastball and struck out the side.

"It felt like I was playing in the big leagues," Phillips told Taylor Eldridge of the Wichita Eagle. "Just because of how new (pitching) is to me, that's how it felt emotions-wise. I'm excited to see where this takes me, but it was a great first step."

Phillips was a fan favorite during a three-year stint with the Tampa Bay Rays. The 30-year-old also made stops with the Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, and Baltimore Orioles during his career.

Phillips made five pitching appearances during his career, posting a 15.19 ERA.