MLB Free Agency 2017: Top 5 potential teams for Greg Holland

3. Houston Astros

With the entire world watching, Houston Astros closer Ken Giles spiraled out of control in the ALCS and World Series. Over his final 4.2 innings of the postseason, Giles allowed nine hits, eight runs, two home runs and five walks. By comparison, his 6.00 ERA in two games in the ALDS looked great.

Astros manager A.J. Hinch was forced to stretch out starters like Brad Peacock and Lance McCullers to cover for Giles as he struggled. There has not been word whether or not the 27-year-old right-hander will keep his job in 2018, but the Astros definitely still have the financial flexibility to sign at least one or two big free agents. It’s gotta be tough having the reigning AL MVP under contract for $6 million. Seriously, has there ever been a better deal than Jose Altuve’s five-year, $18.5-million extension?

That Altuve is criminally underpaid will only make it easier for the Astros to continue surrounding their core with elite talent. Last winter, it was Brian McCann, Carlos Beltran, Josh Reddick and Charlie Morton. This year, it may be a top closer that the Houston front office adds to its roster.

Giles was great in the regular season, but he has had his ups and downs in two years with the Astros. He was a bit plagued by the longball in 2016, but struck out 14 per nine. In 2017, Giles lowered his ERA from 4.11 to 2.30 and saved 34 games while striking out 11.9 per nine and halving his home-run rate. There isn’t a ton of pressure on the Astros to move Giles off the ninth inning, but if they can get Greg Holland at a fair price early in the offseason, they might pull the trigger.