Yanks sign Frieri; reliever could make OD roster
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DUNEDIN, Fla. -- The Yankees have signed right-handed reliever Ernesto Frieri to a Minor League contract with an invitation to big league Spring Training.
Frieri's last Major League appearance came for the Rays in 2015, and he impressed Yankees scouts while pitching for Colombia in the World Baseball Classic.
Manager Joe Girardi said that he sees Frieri having a legitimate chance to make the roster.
"This is a guy that saved a lot of games," Girardi said. "I know he pitched well in the WBC. Some of our people saw him, so he's going to get an opportunity here."
Frieri compiled a 3.55 ERA with 73 saves over 298 big league appearances from 2009-15 with the Padres, Angels, Pirates and Rays. Frieri will wear uniform No. 50.