The stros already invested, not to mention wasted too many trade chips on Giles, they'll likely get a solid setup reliever who can also close, cheaper than a bona fide top dollar closer. Besides, comes playoff, even the best closer will get rocked from time to time.
$20 tipjar bet with up to 5 people that Giles saves >= 85% of his chances the rest of the way? That's not top 5 closer stuff, but it's not too bad (for example, David Robertson has been similar the last couple of years). Giles is currently 10/11, so only counting Saves and Blown Saves beyond that.
I trust him, but I don't like putting all that pressure on one pitcher. I'd like to see Giles and Devo [he really does WHIP it good--best WHIP (.81) on team] get work at both setup and closer. I'd also like to see Feliz/Peacock/Hoyt compete more for middle relief. Stats: http://www.espn.com/mlb/team/stats/pitching/_/name/hou/houston-astros
Whether or not you trust him, using a closer's ERA to judge him is a bit off. Counting today, he has had 12 save opportunities with one blown save. He has given up 2 runs in 11 innings of save opportunities. So if you want to judge him using his ERA in closing situations, it's 1.64. Do I trust him to have a save percentage in the top 5 of the AL over the course of the season - yes. Do I trust him to be "lights out Lidge" - no.
What roles do you think Feliz, Peacock and Hoyt have been put in? The vast majority of their appearances have been 'middle relief'.
Just saw this reply. More Devo from middle relief to set-up/closer. More Feliz/Peacock/Hoyt appearances over gregerson/Harris in middle relief.
Ironic reply based on the way today's game played out (as well as most games this season). Also, what is your definition of 'middle' relief? Essentially middle relief occurs before the 7th inning which is exactly where Feliz, Hoyt and Peacock have been pitching most of the season.
Many have complained about Giles, in many cases, rightfully so. But the fact remains the absolute best thing (and easiest fix) is for Giles to figure it out and be the pitcher he was expected to be. His numbers look great, and hopefully it continues. Last night (and much of this season) was awesome!! Road McCullers was in a similar position. Hope both these guys can continue their surge !!!
Over the past calendar year, Astros bullpen has the second fewest losses and the third most wins. Dammit Giles!
After that rocky start, I would have said no, but I'm beginning to trust the guy more and more as the season progresses. In his last 15 outings, he's given up only 2 earned runs and 7 hits with 10 saves in 11 opportunities. That's more of what I was expecting when the Astros acquired the guy.
