Mike Fiers

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Milwaukee Brewers #12 prospect in 2012
  Nova Southeastern (Fla.) already has sent two late-rounders from the 2009 draft to the big leagues, with J.D. Martinez and Fiers making their debuts last season. The Astros drafted Martinez in the 20th round, while Fiers went two rounds later after leading NCAA Division II with 145 strikeouts in 109 innings that spring. Signed for $2,500, he broke into pro ball as a closer and has split the last two years between starting and relieving. Milwaukee's 2011 minor league pitcher of the year after leading the system in wins (13) and ERA (1.86), he made two scoreless relief appearances for the Brewers in September. Fiers pitches from an over-the-top delivery with excellent control, constantly working ahead in the count. He's not overpowering, but there's deception in his delivery and hitters have trouble picking up his pitches. His best pitch is a solid changeup with tailing action that keeps lefthanders at bay. He sets is up with an 88-92 mph fastball more notable for his ability to locate it down in the zone than its velocity. He also mixes in a low-80s slider and a mid-70s curveball. Fiers' 2011 performance has the Brewers projecting him as a back-of-the-rotation starter, though they have no openings in the big leagues. He may open the year in Nashville unless he wins a middle-relief job during spring training.