Ernesto Frieri back in closer role with third save

Angels pitcher Ernesto Frieri was tabbed to take the mound in a save situation Monday, and he pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning in his team's 4-1 win over the Yankees for his third save of the season.

Since being pulled from the closer role after an atrocious outing on April 23, Frieri has pitched 4 2/3 scoreless innings over five appearances without allowing a hit or a walk. Joe Smith also pitched well in the closer role while Frieri was working out the kinks, but manager Mike Scioscia indicated Sunday that Frieri was close to regaining his job in the ninth inning.