40 Man Roster Review: Mike Fiers

The next player to be reviewed is right-handed pitcher Mike Fiers. Originally a 22nd round selection of the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2009 draft, the Astros acquired him and Carlos Gomez in a trade at the 2015 deadline.

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Fiers is probably most recognized for his no-hitter in mid-August. In a 3-0 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, Fiers was masterful of his arsenal. Brooks Baseball, simplistically defines his arsenal as a pair of fastball variants, two breaking pitches, and an off-speed offering. With the help of pitching coach Brent Strom, I am excited to see further development.

Despite pitching a no-hitter last season, I consider Fiers time with the Astros up-and-down. Part of this can be attributed to questionable managing. I am in no way suggesting that AJ Hinch did a bad job last season. However, it is confusing to acquire a pitcher then immediately use him as an emergency relief pitcher.

The month in which he threw a no-hitter, August, Fiers settled into his new club quite well. Of course, such a performance helps to maintain a low batting average against as well as earned run average.

September, on the other hand, saw mixed to poor outings from Fiers. Three of his five starts in September were quality. In the grand scheme of things, however, he struggled to a 4.45 earned run average.

This seesaw of results likely played a role in him not starting a game in the postseason. But for him to not transfer to a relief role, one that he served his debut in albeit terrible results, is a little puzzling.

Regardless of the past, Fiers seems to have been a solid pickup for the Astros. With a full spring training and Brent Strom's guidance, I am expecting Fiers to display more consistent strings of success. Oh yeah, and he will be a starting pitcher. There are no doubts about that.