The A's were rumored to be close to acquiring Fiers from Detroit on July 31 (before the non-waiver trade deadline), but both sides could not close the deal. So, it is no surprise that Oakland went back to the well and finally completed this transaction. A surprise contender in the American League this season, the A's needed another starter so Fiers should help them.

Since Detroit is going nowhere this season, it makes all the sense in the world to deal a veteran starter like Fiers (33 years old) to a contender. Since Oakland had been after Fiers for a while, it was clear that they were the ones willing to offer the most back (even if the exact return is not yet known, as the Tigers will probably choose two prospects eventually).

Fiers is not a great fantasy asset but he is not bad (and can help fantasy teams down the stretch, just as he can help Oakland). He should be picked up if available for starting pitching depth.