Yes, you read that headline correctly. Prince Fielder has not played since the 2016 season. Even if salaries are prorated for an 82 game season, Fielder will be at the top of the list this year. No, I’m not making this up either. Good for the big fella.
VIA: The Athletic — The highest-paid player in baseball this season might be a former slugger who has not appeared in a game since July 18, 2016.
Prince Fielder, owed $24 million in the final year of his contract with the Rangers, is to receive his full termination pay under terms of the March agreement between the owners and players regarding a shortened or canceled 2020 season.
Among the other released players who might receive their full salaries barring a change in terms: Left-hander Wei-Yin Chen, who is owed $22 million this season by the Marlins, and infielder Zack Cozart, who is owed $12.167 million by the Giants.
How awesome is that. Fielder is going to be the highest paid player in the sport. Because he was released by Texas, Fielder doesn’t need to worry about the shortened season. His contract was signed and guaranteed. He’s getting paid whether they play or not. If Fielder was on the roster, different ball game.
The funniest part about this is the players and owners are now fighting over prorated or revenue sharing strategies for the season. Because there’s no salary cap, I don’t see how it’s possible to find a perfect situation that makes sense. Somewhere, Prince Fielder is laughing. Nobody in baseball will win quite like Fielder this year. If you had Prince Fielder taking home the biggest check in baseball this year, cash in those tickets!
