MLB Rumors: Where Will Prince Fielder Play Next Season?
The Milwaukee Brewers probably don't have enough room on their payroll to re-sign Prince Fielder after his contract expires after this season.
That's led to rumors about where the slugging first baseman could end up if the Brewers decide to trade him.
Whichever team tries to land him in a trade will be asked to give up a lot, but with Fielder's recent production, he's worth the price.
Here are the five teams most likely to have Fielder when the 2011 season begins.
5. Los Angeles Dodgers
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There was a rumor that the Dodgers were offering James Loney and Jonathan Broxton to the Brewers for Fielder.
That appears to have fallen through, with the Dodgers saying they are no longer involved.
But, the simple fact that there was a rumor in the first place means there's a chance Fielder could end up in Dodger blue.
4. Baltimore Orioles
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The Orioles have shown they are willing to spend some money to try to compete with the Yankees and Red Sox in the AL East.
So far this offseason, they have traded for third baseman Mark Reynolds and shortstop J.J. Hardy.
Imagine if their revamped infield could include Prince Fielder at first base.
Despite the high strikeout totals, that would be a tough batting order to face.
3. Texas Rangers
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No one would argue that Mitch Moreland is a better first baseman than Prince Fielder.
Moreland batted ninth for the Rangers in Game 1 of the World Series this year. Fielder would be a middle-of-the-order hitter.
Imagine a Ranger lineup with Fielder, Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz and Vladimir Guerrero (if they re-sign him). That's scary.
Plus, if the Rangers can't sign Cliff Lee, they'll have some money to spend. Fielder is a better option than any available pitcher, with the possible exception of Zack Greinke.
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2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
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The other L.A. team might also be a good fit for Fielder.
The Angels clearly have some money to spend, as they were involved in the Carl Crawford sweepstakes.
With Kendry Morales returning from a broken leg next season, the Angels could acquire Fielder and use him in a DH role or have him spell Morales at first base from time to time.
He'd also give the Angels the bat they've needed for a long time now.
1. Milwaukee Brewers
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The most likely place for Fielder to start the 2011 season is the same place he ended the 2010 season.
It doesn't look like the Brewers are in any hurry to move Fielder, despite the fact that there are a few teams interested in dealing for him.
That said, don't expect him to finish 2011 with the Brewers.
Milwaukee will likely trade Fielder at the trade deadline if they aren't in a good position to make the playoffs.
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