Mike Fiers has not given up on his baseball career just yet. He had signed with the Leones de Yucatan following his disastrous 2021 season, hoping to rediscover his form. A strong showing in the Mexican League led to an opportunity in the Chinese Professional Baseball League with Fiers signing with the Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions at the end of June.
Now that he has gone through the intake process and quarantine, Fiers is ready to pitch. He joined the Uni-Lions for the first time on Sunday as he reported to the team.
CPBL means another chance for Mike Fiers
The now 37 year old was unable to drum up any interest stateside after last year. Fiers battled injuries all season, making just two mediocre appearances for the Oakland A’s as he allowed eight runs on 15 hits and four walks over his 9.1 innings, striking out just five batters. He allowed four homers in that time frame as well as he was unable to fool anyone.
But Fiers showed signs of competence in Mexico. He posted a 2.84 ERA and a 1.218 WHiP in his 44.1 innings for Yucatan, striking out 19 batters with seven walks. His strikeout rate may have been mediocre, but he was able to get batters out.
If Fiers can do the same with the Uni-Lions, he may be able to get another look at the major league level. He had been a dependable innings eater before last season, typically taking the ball every fifth day with solid results. A strong showing in Taiwan could lead to his getting one final chance stateside.
Mike Fiers is still plugging away in hopes of returning to the majors. He has begun his latest journey as he has reported to the Uni-Lions.