LAREDO, Texas -- The Laredo Broncos say they have signed Jose Canseco to a short-term contract.

The independent minor league team said Saturday that Canseco, 46, will serve as bench coach and designated hitter during two Broncos' homestands starting Monday.

The United League series against the Rio Grande Valley White Wings is Aug. 16-18. He'll also be there Aug. 28-30 against the Coastal Bend Thunder.

The former American League MVP who admitted to using steroids and alleged that several other players did too formerly played with two teams in the independent Golden League in 2006.