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The Astros made a major trade today, adding Ken Giles from the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for Vince Velasquez, Brett Oberholtzer, Thomas Eshelman, and Derek Fisher. Some fun facts and info on our new late innings reliever.
The Phillies drafted him in the 7th round of the 2011 draft out of Yavapai Community College in Arizona. He's been groomed as the Phillies closer, finally getting that job after Jonathan Papelbon was traded last season.
His fastball averaged 96.5 mph last season, the 11th fastest average for an MLB reliever. He also struck out over eleven batters per nine innings in 2015. Jeff Luhnow and the Astros got the dominant late inning arm they were looking for.
From stalking his Twitter page, it looks like he's a dog lover (especially pit bulls) and into cars.
Follow Ken Giles on Twitter
His MLB.com page: Ken Giles Stats, Fantasy & News | phillies.com
His Brooks Baseball player card: Player Card: Ken Giles
Finally, a fun Ken Giles stat:
The #Astros acquire Ken Giles pending physical. Giles has a career 1.56 ERA. The lowest in baseball history (minimum 100 innings pitched).
— Ace of MLB Stats (@theaceofspaeder) December 10, 2015