Mike Fiers has not had a banner 2021 season. He had been sidelined at the start of the season, unable to make his debut until April 30. His season lasted for all of two outings before he was back on the Injured List, this time suffering from a sprained right elbow.
Fiers’ attempts to begin a comeback have ended painfully. He has felt discomfort while throwing, prompting a visit to Dr. James Andrews. Fortunately, he does not have any structural damage, but will be sidelined for at least another four weeks after receiving a PRP injection. At best, he will return some time before the end of the season, but that is hardly a given.
Mike Fiers still being accused of ducking Astros
Despite the obvious medical issues that Fiers is facing with his elbow, there are plenty of conspiracy theorists claiming that he is attempting to duck his former team. Since Fiers did not face the Astros during the 2020 ALDS, the only pitcher on the A’s roster not to appear in the series, Houston fans have claimed that he did not want to face the team he squealed on.
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That theory is continuing. While he would have been lined up to face the Astros shortly after landing on the IL, it is not as though he returned immediately afterwards. His elbow issues, and subsequent setbacks, would seemingly be all the proof that would be needed to shut down that thought process.
But no. Astros fans are still claiming that Fiers is purposely not returning so that he does not have to face his former team. The A’s are being referred to as a Witness Protection Franchise, while Fiers is receiving the sort of derogatory comments and names that have made Astros fans amongst the most hated in baseball.
Injuries happen. That is particularly the case with a pitcher who has over 1500 professional innings and just celebrated his 36th birthday. Those years and innings add up. No matter what the Astros’ fanbase wants to believe, Fiers’ elbow is feeling that wear and tear. But the facts do not fit their pathetic narrative.
Mike Fiers’ elbow is still giving him trouble. However, according to Astros fans, the reason why he is on the sideline is to avoid his former team.