Mike Fiers glad to return to A's after long free-agent wait: 'It was scary' FacebookTwitterEmail FILE - In this Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020 file photo, Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Mike Fiers (50) throws against the Colorado Rockies during the first inning of a baseball game in Denver. Right-hander Mike Fiers is staying put with the Oakland Athletics, reaching agreement on a $3.5 million, one-year contract Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey, File)Jack Dempsey / Associated Press This offseason was not Mike Fiers’ first foray into free agency, but it was the longest the right-hander has spent on the open market as a major-leaguer. Amid a slow winter across baseball following the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, Fiers was one of many free agents without a team for months. He remained officially unsigned until Tuesday, when the A’s announced his return on a one-year deal that is for $3.5 million. Fiers, 35, was candid when asked about his offseason experience Thursday.