Prince Fielder, a name synonymous with power hitting in Major League Baseball, is more than just a former professional baseball first baseman and designated hitter. His journey is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the importance of family. From his early days under the tutelage of his father, Cecil Fielder, to his own struggles and eventual forced retirement, Fielder's story is one of constant evolution.
Early Life and Career
Born on May 9, 1984, Prince Semien Fielder's destiny seemed intertwined with baseball from the start. The son of Cecil Fielder, a renowned home run hitter himself, Prince was immersed in the world of baseball from a young age. He spent time around his father's teams' clubhouses and even appeared with him on MTV Rock N' Jock Softball. Initially a right-handed hitter, Prince was converted to a left-handed stance by his father, a decision that would shape his career.
Fielder attended Saint Edward's School and later transferred to Eau Gallie High School, where he excelled in baseball. His impressive senior year stats, including a .524 batting average, 10 home runs, and 41 RBIs, solidified his status as a top prospect.
In 2002, the Milwaukee Brewers selected Fielder in the first round of the Major League Baseball draft. He quickly ascended through the minor leagues, showcasing his prodigious power.
Major League Debut and Rise to Stardom
Fielder made his Major League debut on June 13, 2005, with the Brewers. While he initially served as a designated hitter during interleague play, he soon established himself as the team's starting first baseman.
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In 2006, Fielder was named the National League's Rookie of the Month for April. He finished the season leading all major league rookies with 28 home runs. His performance continued to improve, and in 2007, he broke the Brewers' franchise record for home runs in a season, hitting his 46th in a game against the Cincinnati Reds.
On September 25, 2007, Fielder became the youngest player ever to reach 50 home runs in a season, joining his father in the exclusive club. He viewed this achievement as a way to prove his doubters wrong and step out of his father's shadow.
Contract Disputes and Dugout Scuffle
Despite his success, Fielder's relationship with the Brewers became strained due to contract disputes. Unable to reach a long-term agreement, he signed a one-year deal in 2008.
That same year, Fielder was involved in a dugout scuffle with teammate Manny Parra during a game against the Cincinnati Reds. The incident stemmed from Parra's decision to head back to the clubhouse after being pulled from the game, rather than staying in the dugout to watch the Brewers bat.
All-Star Selection and Home Run Derby Champion
Fielder's talent was undeniable, and he continued to earn accolades. He was selected as one of four NL first basemen for the 2009 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. He also won the 2009 Major League Baseball Home Run Derby, defeating Nelson Cruz in the final round.
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Controversies and Record-Breaking Season
Fielder's career was not without controversy. In August 2009, he was involved in an incident with Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Guillermo Mota, who hit him with a pitch in apparent retaliation for a previous hit-by-pitch.
Despite the controversies, Fielder had a remarkable season in 2009. On September 19, he set the Brewers' single-season record for RBIs at 127, surpassing Cecil Cooper's 1983 record. He finished the season tied for first in the National League in RBIs and second in home runs.
Joining the Detroit Tigers
Following the 2011 World Series, Fielder became a free agent. On January 26, 2012, he signed a nine-year, $214 million contract with the Detroit Tigers, the largest contract in the team's history at the time.
The Tigers acquired Fielder to fill the void left by an injured Víctor Martínez. He quickly made an impact, hitting his first two home runs as a Tiger on April 7, 2012.
Second Home Run Derby Win and World Series Appearance
In his first season in the American League, Fielder was voted to the 2012 All-Star team as a starter. He also won the 2012 Home Run Derby, becoming the first participant to win for both the National and American League.
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Fielder finished the 2012 regular season with a career-best .313 batting average. He played in all 162 games for Detroit and led the American League in being hit by pitches.
The 2012 World Series marked Fielder's first career appearance in the Fall Classic. However, the Tigers were swept by the San Francisco Giants.
Continued Success and Trade to the Texas Rangers
Fielder continued to perform well for the Tigers in 2013, earning his fifth career All-Star selection. However, after the season, he was traded to the Texas Rangers.
At his introductory news conference in Arlington, Fielder announced that he would be wearing uniform No. 84 for 2014. However, his performance declined, and he hit just three homers in his first 150 at-bats as a Ranger.
Neck Injury and Retirement
In 2014, Fielder was diagnosed with a neck injury that required surgery to fuse a problematic disc to another. The surgery and recovery period allowed him to spend more time with his family.
On August 10, 2016, Fielder announced that he would be unable to continue his playing career after undergoing a second neck surgery in three years. He was released by the Rangers on October 4, 2017, ending his career with 319 home runs, the same number as his father, Cecil Fielder.
Vegetarianism
Before the 2008 season, Fielder made a drastic change in his lifestyle by becoming a vegetarian after reading a book about the treatment of animals. This decision was met with both support and skepticism.
Fielder's vegetarianism sparked a debate about the impact of a meat-free diet on athletic performance. While some experts raised concerns about protein intake and essential nutrients, others argued that a well-planned vegetarian diet could provide all the necessary nutrients for an athlete.
Fielder himself claimed that he felt better and had more energy after becoming a vegetarian. He worked with team nutritionists to ensure that he was getting enough protein and other essential nutrients.
Legacy and Impact
Despite his premature retirement, Prince Fielder left a lasting impact on baseball. He was a six-time All-Star, a two-time Home Run Derby champion, and a Silver Slugger Award winner. He holds the Brewers' team record for home runs and RBIs in a season and is the youngest player in National League history to hit 50 home runs in a season.
Fielder's career was defined by his prodigious power, his infectious personality, and his commitment to his family. He overcame numerous obstacles, including contract disputes, injuries, and the pressure of living up to his father's legacy.
Personal Life
Fielder married his wife, Chanel, in 2005. They have two sons, Jadyn and Haven. Fielder is known for his close relationship with his family and often speaks about the importance of spending time with them.