Ken Giles FIP is now 1.79, the lowest of his career. He has been straight fire. We're finally seeing the 100 mph flame thrower closer come out.
Giles has had better fastball command lately. That's been his bug-a-boo so if he can maintain that he should be okay.
I count 5-6 last season. So Giles as a closer with Houston, has saved 8 out of 9 of 1-run opportunities in the ninth. Granted, I think this is likely dumb luck as he has fared worse in "easier" save situations.
I sure hope last night was due to being rusty. I also see a different pitcher on the road. Here's his 10 appearances on the road this yr: @ SEA 1IP 1H 2BB 2R @ OAK 1IP 1H 1R @TB 1IP 0H 0R @TB 1IP 1H 0R @LAA 1IP 3H 1R @LAA 1IP 0H 0R @NYY 1IP 2H 1BB 1R @NYY .1IP 1H 1BB 0R @MIA 1IP 0H 1BB 0R @Tex 1IP 1H 1R TOTALS 9.1 IP 6R 10H 5BB *runs in 5 of 10 gms *runs in 3 of last 6 gms
He's certainly been better at home. Context is also something that can be looked at... I believe 5 of those 10 games were not the usual save situation. The Astros road dominance has certainly played a role in that.
I trust him a lot more. last night doesn't really change that at all. I asked for consistency, that's what I have gotten. He's serving me a giant plate of crow.
@Tex 1IP 1H 1R 1BB *runs in 6 of 11 gms *runs in 4 of last 7 gms There certainly appears to be a difference in his effectiveness on the road compared to at home thus far. I like how he got his $hit together and took care of business after giving up the run. He's still growing as a closer and the more success he has his confidence will continue to grow.
