Anyone interested in Prince Fielder?

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Once the California Angels began their spending spree signing Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson, I was mildly surprised that the Texas Rangers sat still.

Outside of the usual Yu Darvish rumor (they have until Jan. 18 to iron that deal out), the Rangers seemed relatively content.

More so, I found it odd that the Rangers weren't even in the rumor ballpark for free agent Prince Fielder. Considered one of the top two or three free agents on the market, Fielder is a young (27), beefy slugger. Fits in the middle of any line-up. Drives in runs, gets on base thanks to a ton of walks and plays first base.

Out of nowhere, this afternoon, Twitter blew up: Prince Fielder was in Dallas-Fort Worth meeting with the Rangers. Suddenly, they were not only in the works, but they were considered one of the frontrunners for the Ruebenesque first baseman. According to Buster Olney, the Chicago Cubs and Washington Nationals are also vying for his services.

A baseball executive told Olney that Fielder will want six years (at least) and about $23 million per year. Going to be real honest: I didn't think you'd get Fielder that cheap. I read elsewhere that Fielder would command eight years, something the Rangers are wont to do.

Most believe that the Rangers will not sign Darvish and Fielder. The Star-Telegram's Jeff Wilson said Fielder is "Plan B" in case Darvish doesn't sign. One hell of a Plan B. I suspect all of this to be true because it makes sense.

I also think Fielder signing means something else: Josh Hamilton will not get extended. Fielder is a younger and far more healthy (no major issues in six seasons ... although he does play first base and is a fifth of the athlete Hamilton is). Hamilton is probably more valuable. He plays the outfield, steals bases, is a fan favorite and his potential at the plate and on the basepaths is ... dynamic.

Fielder's more of a "what you see is what you get" get. He'll drive in 120, hit .290, draw 100 walks, strike out 130 times and wind up in the top five of MVP voting while playing 160 games. He's also not a former drug addict that needs a handler. His bones aren't made of glass. Jelly, maybe. Not glass.

If Fielder comes, Hamilton is gone.

So, let the rumors fly. Love that the Rangers are into all of this. Something sorely missed in these parts in the lean years.

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