Giants sign Joe Nathan to minor league deal

Joe Nathan is joining the Giants on a minor league deal, according to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman.

The Cubs designated Nathan, who has appeared in the majors only four times since 2015, for assignment earlier this month after he made three relief appearances. Chicago signed him to a one-year contract in May.

Nathan tossed two scoreless innings for the Cubs this season, but pitched in one game with the Tigers last year before undergoing season-ending Tommy John surgery.

Although Nathan hasn’t had much success of late, he’s pitched to a career 2.88 ERA and 3.37 FIP. He set a franchise record for saves in a season with the Twins and is a six-time All-Star.

San Francisco drafted Nathan in the sixth round in 1995 and used him as both a starter and reliever.

The Giants enter play Tuesday with a half game lead over the Dodgers in the National League West. The club has blown 21 saves this season, which ranks third in baseball.

San Francisco’s bullpen has pitched to a 3.76 ERA, which ranks fourth in the National League.