Astros in Fantasy: First Half Recap

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Jul 7, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Doug Fister (58) reacts after walking a hitter during the second inning against the Oakland Athletics at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Doug Fister– 106.1 IP, 96 H, 42 ER, 36 BB, 66 K, 8 W, 3.55 ERA, 1.24 WHIP

No one knew what to expect when the Fister signing became a done deal this offseason. He was coming into 2016 looking to rebound after a tough 2015 with the Washington Nationals.

So far in 2016, Fister has rebounded quite nicely. In his 17 starts this season, Fister leads the Astros in wins, with eight, ERA, at 3.55, and WHIP, at 1.24.

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His 2016 did not start promising, though. In his first two starts this season, Fister gave up nine earned runs in 10.2 innings pitched. However, Fister then gave up three earned runs or fewer in his next twelve starts to lower his ERA to 3.21.

So, what was his secret to coming back strong in 2016? It’s pitching the same way that Fister always has. With a two-seam fastball that he throws 46.2% of the time, Fister lives and dies by the ground ball with a 48.5% ground ball rate this year.

He also shows that he doesn’t have to strike many batters out to be successful. Averaging only 5.59 strikeouts per nine innings, Fister only strikes out batters 15% of the time.

That really has to do with his stuff. Averaging mid-eighties on his fastball, Fister does not blow anyone away. However, he has been very successful against right-handed batters. With a 2.13 ERA against, Fister has a 0.98 WHIP and .200 batting average against them.

Although many fantasy owners have overlooked Fister this year, he has proved to be a solid starter for the Astros. Although he does not strike many batters out or may not have the best WHIP, Fister will get you wins. He has been one of the most underrated pitchers in the AL this year.

Next: Now on to the Second Half

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