Luke Gregerson will begin the season closing games for the Houston Astros, A.J. Hinch has confirmed.

Gregerson was given the role over Ken Giles, who the Astros acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Philadelphia Phillies this offseason.

Gregerson, 31, had a career-high 31 saves in 36 chances and a 3.10 ERA as Houston's closer last season.

"He's got a slow heartbeat. He's got a real feel for how to pitch," Hinch said. "His calmness in the intense moments are critical in giving the guy the ball the last part of the game."