Mike Fiers was seemingly on the way to making good on his comeback attempt. He had pitched well enough in Mexico to get a look in the Chinese Professional Baseball League, having signed with the Uni-Lions. A strong showing there could have been enough to get Fiers one final major league opportunity, even if it was a minor league deal with a spring training invitation.
So much for those plans. Fiers failed his physical with the Uni-Lions, leading the team to terminate his contract. He is now back in free agency.
Mike Fiers looking for new opportunity to resurrect career
Fiers had been a solid back of the rotation arm for much of his career. He would take the ball every fifth day, generally throwing six decent innings while giving the bullpen a bit of a rest. There were flashes of brilliance as well, such as when he fired a pair of no-hitters, but he will mostly be remembered for setting off the AstroGate firestorm.
Fiers’ 2021 campaign for the Oakland A’s was lost due to injury. He made just two appearances, allowing eight runs on 15 hits and four walks over his 9.1 innings, striking out five batters. It should not have been much of a surprise to anyone that he was unable to attract any interest during the offseason.
His showing in Mexico proved that there was still something left in the tank. The now 37 year old posted a 2.84 ERA and a 1.218 WHiP in his 44.1 innings with Yucatan, issuing only seven walks with 19 strikeouts. While his strikeout rate is not going to impress anyone, his command is still there and he did generate relatively weak contact in a league known for offense.
Maybe Fiers will be able to head back to Mexico for the remainder of this year. If he is healthy, and can continue that success, he may be able to make that hoped for return to the majors. At the very worst, he could get a look in spring training.
Mike Fiers will not be heading to the CPBL after all. He failed his physical with the Uni-Lions, ending his time there before it began.