Ernesto Frieri Inks Minor League Deal with Phillies

The Phillies have acquired relief pitcher Ernesto Frieri to a minor league contract, the team announced.

Frieri, 30, has a career 3.55 ERA and 73 saves in seven major-league seasons since signing as an amateur free agent in 2003 with the Padres. He saved 60 games over a two year stretch while current Phillies GM Matt Klentak was serving as the assistant GM in Los Angeles with the Angels

His best season came in 2013 with the Angels, when he saved 37 games with 90 strikeouts in 68 innings pitched, but he has struggled in recent years, posting a 6.37 ERA over 70 appearances in the majors since the start of the 2014 season.

However with the Phillies limited bullpen and really no experience at the back end, Frieri could find a big role, possibly as the closer for the 2016 season.