6 years agoHouston Astros relief pitcher Ken Giles received a rare chance to earn a save and converted as the Astros beat the Rangers 5-4 in 10 innings on Wednesday. Giles now has 12 saves this season but nailed down his first since June 4 after ostensibly being removed from the role for pitcher Hector Rondon. Giles knocked down 34 saves in 2017 but completely imploded in the playoffs and was barely used in the World Series. Unfortunately, his lost confidence carried over into this season and a few rocky outings forced manager A.J. Hinch's hand. Giles lowered his ERA to 3.94 after the outing, but it is unclear whether the opportunity to close games will continue in the near future. Giles still has the stuff and his control has been excellent (three walks in 29 2/3 innings), but opposing hitters are batting .269 against him this season. Giles will have to string together weeks of scoreless baseball before he can reclaim the closer's role for the division-leading Astros.--Joey C - RotoBaller
Source: Houston Astros