Houston Astros Trade News 2015: Team Gets Ken Giles from Phillies
The Houston Astros finally get the closer they want after the Phillies sent right-hander Ken Giles in exchange for a bunch of players, including Vincent Velasquez, Derek Fisher, Brett Oberholtzer, and a fourth player to be named later on.
It's no secret to Astros fans that the team is in dire need of a quality and dependable closer for next season, and it looks like Giles is the best option they could get their hands on. The 25-year-old had a remarkable season, taking over the Phillies pitching chores when Jonathan Papelbon was traded, producing 1.80 ERA, along with 87 strikeouts.
Giles is known for his fastball that easily tops 100 mph, and as a power pitcher, he uses that fastball with a slider to achieve high strikeouts.
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The addition of Giles means that current closer Luke Gregerson is likely going to be relegated into setup role.
Meanwhile, Velasquez is a young prospect that the Phillies believe will blossom sooner than later. The 23-year-old had 4.37 ERA with 58 strikeouts in 55 innings. The kid has a lot of potential in him, but he needs to get rid of his control issues. He either can become a starter himself with the Phillies or perhaps assume the reliever's role, just like Giles.
Fisher, on the other hand, had 22 homers at two Class A levels last year, appearing in 123 games. The 22-year-old is also a top prospect who can produce hits for the Phillies next season.
Oberholtzer spent majority of last season in Triple-A, appearing in eight starts and 38 innings, while producing 4.46 ERA. He's the kind of player expected to immediately become part of the Philadelphia's rotation.
Since the Phillies are in a rebuilding mode at this point, having those three prospects may very well be a smart decision for the team.
