As expected, the Mets signed right-handed starter Claudio Vargas this afternoon. Vargas, who was released by the Brewers in a salary dump late in spring training, agreed to a minor-league deal and will report to extended spring training in Port St. Lucie before joining the Mets’ Triple-A affiliate in New Orleans.

The Mets have been in need of pitching depth after Pedro Martinez (hamstring) joined Orlando Hernandez (right foot) on the disabled list last week. Vargas also has a history with Mets GM Omar Minaya, who acquired him while Minaya was in charge of the Expos.

Vargas, 29, went 11-6 with one save and a 5.09 ERA in 29 games (23 starts) last year for the Brewers. In 134.1 innings, he allowed 153 hits, 80 runs, 76 earned, with 54 walks and 107 strikeouts.

The Post reported this morning that the Mets were the favorites to sign Vargas.