Commentary

Toronto should sign Prince Fielder

Signing Fielder could make the Blue Jays a playoff-contending team

Originally Published: August 31, 2011
By Matt Meyers | ESPN Insider

Barring any unforeseen collapses, both the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees will make the playoffs for the ninth time since 1995, aka the wild-card era. During that span there hasn't been a single occasion in which both teams missed the playoffs, nor has there been a year in which the Toronto Blue Jays have reached them.

As you probably know, life in the AL East isn't easy. And while the Tampa Bay Rays have proved it's not impossible to topple the Yankees or Sox, overcoming those teams' financial advantages is no walk in the park. However, thanks to some shrewd moves by general manager Alex Anthopoulos, the Jays are actually in good position to compete for a playoff spot in the next couple of years.

The Jays play in a large market and have some money to spend (unlike the Rays), which is why they don't need to just sit around and wait for their young, cheap talent to blossom. The Jays need to get aggressive in the free-agent market this offseason and make a major play for Albert Pujols or Prince Fielder. Don't believe me? Here are three reasons.

1. They have a need


To read more about why Matt Meyers says the Toronto Blue Jays must sign Prince Fielder, become an ESPN Insider today.

Matt Meyers

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