Ex-Snapper, Fielder, Hangs it up

BELOIT, Wisc- One of the most well-known former Snappers, Prince Fielder, has decided to retire from professional baseball due to health reasons.

The former Milwaukee Brewer, Detroit Tiger, and now Texas Ranger has been plagued with neck injuries that have required surgery and left him sidelined.

Fielder was drafted out of Eau Gallie High School in Melbourne, Florida in the first round by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2002. His second stop in the Minors was with the Beloit Snappers. Fielder played 169 games for Beloit over 2002 and 2003, batting a combined .277 with 29 doubles, 123 RBI, 81 bases on balls, and 30 homers.

Prince is the son of former Major Leaguer and power hitter, Cecil Fielder. Cecil played for five MLB teams and in Japan during his playing career but most fans remember him as a Detroit Tiger. Prince grew up around the game and the MLB lifestyle, hitting homers out of Tiger Stadium at just 12 years old. Cecil and Prince even starred in a McDonald's commercial together in 1992 when Prince was just eight years old.

The father and son duo could be seen in Beloit, as well. Cecil and Prince had an apartment together in Beloit and Cecil could be found at most Snappers games.

With the news of Prince's retirement, he finishes his career with 319 homers; the same as his father.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Rickie Weeks were teammates of Fielder on the 2003 Beloit Snappers as the team went 75-61. All three went on to play in the Majors but Fielder's career was probably the most successful as he was a six time MLB All-Star and two time MLB Home Run Derby champion.

Fielder is one of 195 former Beloit players to make it to the Big Leagues. He provided many people in Beloit with great memories that you can still hear about today at Snappers games and local businesses in the Stateline area.

The Beloit Snappers are a member of the Midwest League and are a fourth year Class-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. Stay tuned to the team website and social media for all up to date information. For ticket information, contact the Snappers' offices at 608-362-2272 or visit our website at www.snappersbaseball.com.