A minor league free agent from the Dodgers has joined the Atlanta Braves.

Once renowned as a 100-mph closer for the 2017 World Series champion Houston Astros, Ken Giles, who appeared in 21 minor league games within the Dodgers’ organization in 2023 with an earned run average of 9.50, has now signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post on Friday.

Giles, who was traded to Toronto in the 2018 season, has faced a series of injuries, particularly missing significant portions of 2020 and 2021 due to Tommy John surgery. His comeback in 2022 included just five games with the Seattle Mariners. Over the last four seasons, Giles has made only nine Major League appearances, pitching eight innings.

In his prime, Giles boasted a 2.71 ERA and secured 115 saves in 362 appearances over eight major-league seasons, amassing 484 strikeouts in 355 1/3 innings. The right-hander initially gained attention by posting a stellar 1.56 ERA in 113 appearances during his first two seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2014–2015, where he also filled in as the closer and notched 16 saves.

David O’Brien, via The Athletic, notes that the Braves, who have invited 60 players to big league camp, view the signing of Giles as a low-risk move. Despite the challenges Giles has faced in recent years, the Braves already have a robust bullpen anchored by closer Raisel Iglesias. If Giles can regain some velocity on his fastball, he could prove to be a valuable addition to the six-time reigning NL East champions.