Has Michael Fiers earned a permanent job?

There’s really been no surprise that the efforts of Michael Fiers have helped secure some victories. With Shaun Marcum still a week or two away from coming back, Fiers has pitched well in his absence. Marco Estrada, who took over for Chris Narveson, has done well in his role as well. Fiers had always been noted as an older prospect (as he is 27) for the Milwaukee Brewers and really made a splash so far this year in the MLB. On the year, Fiers is 3-2 with a 2.29 ERA and 41 strikeouts inside of 39.1 innings pitched. Going into next year, Fiers really begs the question on whether or not Narveson will really even be needed. Clearly Estrada has done well, but not as well as Fiers so far this season. The fifth man spot in the rotation really doesn’t have lot of expectations, but from what Fiers has shown us this season, there’s a reason to believe he can take over that role. Needless to say, Fiers has been one of the few bright spots in the Brewers’ season so far.

Really, what’s not to like about what Fiers has done? Ever since his two rough outings in early June (where he gave up eight runs in a combined 11 innings pitched), Fiers has completely shut down his opposition. In his three starts after those blow ups, Fiers has gone 2-0 with only allowing one earned run in 20.1 innings pitched while striking out 22. He’s definitely ready for this role and he keeps proving it with a resounding effort every time out. He also doesn’t walk a lot of batters as his last game out against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he walked three which is his season high. Fiers’ current opponent’s batting average is .228, so really his low WHIP at 1.07 isn’t just for show.

There’s a lot of positives about Fiers going forward. While he is at what is considered to be a pitcher’s prime in age, he offers a lot to the Brewers rotation. With the possibility of losing Zack Greinke after this season (or sometime this month) and Shaun Marcum, the Brewers need guys to fulfill those roles. Yovani Gallardo and Randy Wolf would more than likely be the one and two in the rotation, followed by what I assume to be Narveson, Estrada and Fiers. Regardless, Fiers has shown us a lot so far this season and each start he has is impressive. Fiers’ next outing will come Thursday against the Miami Marlins (38-40) where he will face Mark Buehrle (7-8, 3.48 ERA). Until next time, go Brew Crew!