Mike Fiers (SP, HOU) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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ANALYSIS: Houston Astros pitcher Mike Fiers allowed only one run and three hits in six innings en route to his fifth win of the season Wednesday night. Fiers is 3-0 in his last four starts with a 1.42 ERA and only 17 hits allowed in 25 innings pitched. The biggest key for Fiers has been his ability to cut down on giving up the long-ball. Fiers has not allowed a home run since May 25th, spanning five starts and its a huge improvement from when he gave up 12 home runs in his first five starts of the year. Fiers has his ERA for the season down to 3.81 and is rising up the fantasy waiver wire. He has three consecutive quality starts, a 0.99 WHIP this season, and has 21 strikeouts in 25 1/3 innings this month. Fiers has not allowed more than five hits in any of his last three starts and has won four consecutive decisions.

After striking out nearly a batter per inning in 2015, Fiers has 201 strikeouts in 246 2/3 innings over the last two innings, but his performance of late has made him a good fantasy option. His 1.33 WHIP this season is not far off from his 1.36 WHIP last season, but his limiting of damage has seen his ERA dip from 4.48 last season. Pick up Fiers while he is on a hot streak, but be ready to cut bait if his home run issues return.