By Jason Shetler
In a move involving two struggling relievers, the Pirates have acquired Ernesto Frieri from the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in exchange for Jason Grilli, the Pirates announced in a press release.
Frieri began the season as the Angels closer after converting 33 saves last season. He struggled mightily with a 6.39 ERA and posted a 1.36 WHIP. He had lost the closers job recently to Joe Smith. During his time with the Halos, Frieri had a 3.80 ERA along with a 1.16 WHIP and a 12.6 K/9 in 157 appearances.
Grilli joined the Pirates midseason in 2011 and became the closer prior to the 2013 season. Just like Frieri this year, Grilli lost the closers role to Mark Melancon after putting up a 4.87 ERA and a 1.62 WHIP. The 37-year-old Grilli posted a 3.01 ERA with a 1.19 WHIP in 168 appearances for the Bucs.
The Pirates will have club control with Frieri, as he will be second time arbitration eligible this offseason.
Bucs Pipeline 