What to know about Prince Fielder
Prince Fielder is a former professional baseball first baseman and designated hitter who played in Major League Baseball from 2005 to 2021. Known for his power hitting and high run production, he played for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays/Rays, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and Atlanta Braves. This profile explains his career timeline, performance milestones, contract history, and how his earnings compare to his peers, using Spotrac sourced data.
Early career and draft context
Drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the first round of the 2005 MLB draft, Fielder quickly rose through the minors and reached the majors during the 2005 season. His early value was established as a disciplined hitter with above-average power for a young first baseman, setting the stage for premium contract expectations as he gained arbitration eligibility.
2009 breakout season
In 2009, Fielder emerged as one of baseball’s most feared power hitters, driving in 121 runs while posting a .592 slugging percentage. His performance that year directly influenced subsequent contract timelines and values, making 2009 a pivotal season in his earning trajectory.
Notable contracts and earnings
Fielder’s career includes several high-value contracts that reflect his production and market demand at key points. Major deals include extensions with the Rays and Tigers, and a landmark move to the Blue Jays where he signed one of the largest contracts in MLB history at the time.
Contract overview
| Team and Period | Contract Highlights | Verified Details and Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay Rays (2007–2011) | 5 year, $50 million extension in 2008 (3 years club control, 2 years arbitration) | Contract details from Spotrac; signed 2008 |
| Detroit Tigers (2012–2017) | 6 year, $138 million deal signed in 2011 | Contract details from Spotrac; signed 2011, effective 2012 |
| Toronto Blue Jays (2016–2021) | 5 year, $142 million extension signed in 2015 | Contract details from Spotrac; signed 2015, effective 2016 |
Performance metrics and power profile
Fielder maintained elite power numbers across multiple parks, combining high home run totals with strong run production. His ability to drive in runs made him valuable in both lineup protection and high leverage situations.
Career highlights at a glance
- 6-time All-Star (2009–2013, 2017)
- 2012 AL Hank Aaron Award winner
- 2009 AL RBI leader (121)
- 2012 AL home run leader (47)
- Over 300 career home runs and 1,100+ RBIs
On field value and advanced metrics
Advanced metrics place Fielder among the most impactful first basemen of his era. His wRC+ consistently ranked well above league average, and his career WAR reflects sustained excellence at the highest level of baseball.
Fielder at a glance by the numbers
| Metric | Value | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Career Batting Average | .262 | MLB regular season, 2005–2021 |
| Career On Base Percentage | .372 | MLB regular season |
| Career Slugging Percentage | .507 | MLB regular season |
| Career wRC+ | 136 | Above average offensive value relative to league |
| Career WAR (Baseball Reference) | 61.7 | Overall wins above replacement, position players |
| Career Home Runs | 319 | Ranked among top 50 all time at retirement |
| Career RBIs | 1,148 | Elite run production across 17 seasons |
Market context and positional value
As a first baseman with rare power, Fielder commanded premium salaries during periods of free agency. Teams valued his ability to change lineups and deliver in big moments, which is reflected in the length and total value of his major deals.
Earnings by phase of career
His earnings increased substantially after establishing himself as a star, peaking during his mid-2010s years with Toronto. While exact annual figures vary by season and incentives, the contracts listed in the table provide a reliable, sourced overview of his top earning years.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Prince Fielder reach the majors?
Drafted in the first round in 2005, Fielder reached the majors with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the same season after strong minor league performance.
What teams did Prince Fielder play for?
He played for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays/Rays, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and Atlanta Braves.
What are Prince Fielder’s biggest career accomplishments?
Highlights include a Hank Aaron Award, an AL home run title, multiple All-Star selections, and consistently top-tier run production over a 17-year career.