Should Prince Fielder Be Traded Now?

Prince Fielder is a big reason the Brewers have become competitive in the National League Central over the past few years. But soon the time will come when either he or the Brewers feel that the next step has to be taken when it comes to the future of the Fielder.

If you are the Brewers, you would like him to sign a contract similar to Ryan Braun's—a long-term deal that fits in a small-market budget. The chances of that happening are unlikely due to the fact that Fielder is represented by Scott Boras.

Boras is known for getting top dollar for his clients and making teams bid against each other which does not bode well for the Brewers.

So the question remains: Do you trade him now, or do you wait? There have already been rumors circulating through the baseball channels that the Brewers are ready to make a deal.

The Nationals, Giants, and Mariners have been mentioned as possible trade candidates. These three teams are all looking for a power bat in the middle of their lineup and they all have extra starting pitching and little to no shot of landing Teixeira.

If you are Brewers GM Doug Melvin, does Prince fit into your '09 plans? The Brewers have lost several pieces of their Wild Card winning roster to free agency such as CC Sabathia, Ben Sheets, Brian Shouse and Soloman Torres.

Does he really think the Brewers can compete in '09 with the roster as it currently stands? Are the Brewers one guy or two guys away from being competitive? Who really knows.

If it was my team, I would wait until the middle of the season to make that decision. With a new manager and several changes being made on the roster, it may be better to see what you have in front you before making that trade.

The only way I would make the trade now is if a loser in the Teixeira sweepstakes steps up to severely overpay for his services.

But for now, hang on to him, let him build his trade value, let him help your team maybe win some games, and let a hunger build in the stomachs of other clubs who are getting desperate for a young power hitter.