Free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder will meet with representatives from the Texas Rangers on Friday, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today. The Washington Nationals are one of the teams rumored to be in the running to sign the left-handed slugger, but the Texas meeting indicates he could be headed to the Lone Star State.
Rumors have long connected Fielder to the Nationals as Washington looks to add a power hitter to its lineup, giving the club, which is heavy on pitching talent, more balance. However, team GM Mike Rizzo has publicly downplayed the Nats' interest in Fielder on several occasions, insisting the team is committed to Adam LaRoche at first base. A report by Bill Ladson of MLB.com indicated some people in Washington's front office are concerned about Fielder's long-term health; listed at 275 pounds, if the 27-year-old's offensive skills diminish, he may be forced into a designated-hitter role.
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