Blue Jays: Ken Giles says he is happier in Toronto since trade

As one controversial former closer makes his way back to the Rogers Centre, the Blue Jays newest closer, Ken Giles, made comments to the Toronto media that are sure to win over Toronto fans.

After the game Sunday, Ken Giles explained to the Toronto Star’s Rosie DiManno that he is actually happier with the Blue Jays than he was with the Astros.

The former World Series champ said specifically:

“I’m actually enjoying the game more than I did for my entire time in Houston. It’s kind of weird to say that because I won a world series with that team. But it’s like, I just felt trapped there. I didn’t feel like myself there. Overall, I felt out of place.”

The interesting quote is sure to spark some reaction in the Houston Astros clubhouse as they arrive in Toronto to finish their season series with the Blue Jays.

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Interestingly, this is not the first time that the closer has made a bold statement to the media. In 2016, Giles’ comments after losing to the Rangers were so controversial that they served as “bulletin board material” for Texas.

For those unfamiliar, after allowing a game-winning home run to noted Blue Jays fan-favourite Rougned Odor, the former Astros closer assured the media:

“We have more talent that this team does. … We’re going to go out there tomorrow and just put them to the ground.”

While Giles’ most recent comments won’t cause quite as much of a stir in the opposing dugout, they are sure to earn him some points among the Blue Jays faithful.

For reference, while with the Houston Astros this season, the righty pitched to a 4.99 ERA, 80 ERA+, and 2.27 FIP. However, while closing games for the Blue Jays, the right-handed hurler has posted a 4.58 ERA, 4.80 FIP, and 93 ERA+.

Former July trade partners, the Blue Jays and Astros will complete their season series with a three game set from Monday to Wednesday. The reigning world champs won two of three games in their last series against Toronto.