To start, I’m fighting the urge to say “I hardly even knew her” after every time I write Fister.

Game 5 of the ALDS, new Yankee Stadium and under the lights. Is there a better way for a (relatively) unknown pitcher to make his mark in history?

Doug Fister (still giggling) has a lot to gain if he’s able to give an impressive outing against the Yankees in what will be the biggest game of his career. Win-or-lose he’s already been the best 2011 deadline trade acquisition in the entire league, while the Indians were doing back-flips (and trading they’re future) for Ubaldo Jimenez. Often criticized Tigers G.M, Dave Dombrowski, snuck under the radar to get Fister which up to this point is the biggest steal at the deadline in recent memory.

At 27, Fister is older than most second year (full season) pros but young enough and with enough potential that with at least a good outing Thursday night (if this is it for the tigers) or a solid playoff run (if they move on) he should be one of the more recognizable pitchers in 2012. Maybe even make a run at the 2012 Cy Young.

So can Fister shutdown or  at least slow down the Yankee bats ending the “still” Evil Empire inWell find at 8:07 p.m on Thursday.