Who Am I?
Mike Fiers
RHP
Age: 31
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 200
Throws right, Bats right
How did I get here?
Originally drafted by Milwaukee in the 22nd round in 2009. Traded to Houston with Carlos Gomez in exchange for Josh Vader, Brett Phillips, Adrian Houser, and Domingo Santana. Let’s not think too much about this trade.
Contract Status:
Avoided arbitration, agreeing to a one year deal for $3.45 million. Not eligible for free agency until 2020.
Why am I here?
Fiers is holding down the back of the rotation until some of the younger, more talented guys are ready. Highly likely to start the season as the #5 starter.
What are my strengths?
Fiers mixes an assortment of pitches – cutter, change, the occasional slider – that don’t get hit too hard, and exhibits good control. He’s capable of soaking up innings.
What are my weaknesses?
If he gets behind in the count, he is – how to put this delicately? – completely screwed. When behind in the count last year, hitters went .296/.422/.527 off him. After 2-0, that went up to .333/.488/.621. He gave up a .653 slugging percentage on his fastball. If he throws 2 balls, an intentional walk becomes a very attractive option.
What is my future with the Astros?
I’ll be surprised if Fiers ends the season with the Astros. With Martes, Rodgers, and Musgrove waiting in the wings, and Devenski and Feliz presenting much better long-man options in the pen, I see a trade in Mr. Fiers’ future.
What is my projected 2017 performance?
| WINS | LOSSES | IP | H | HR | BB | SO | ERA | WHIP | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 11 | 8 | 168.2 | 187 | 26 | 42 | 134 | 4.48 | 1.36 |
| PECOTA | 10 | 8 | 148.2 | 145 | 22 | 48 | 138 | 4.19 | 1.30 |
| ZIPS | 153 | 153 | 21 | 41 | 130 | 4.24 | 1.27 | ||
| MMWAG | 6 | 4 | 110 | 110 | 15 | 30 | 90 | 4.40 | 1.31 |
Who else would I remind you of?
A back end starter with no fastball to speak of, but a no hitter on his resume? Hey there, Bud Smith!