Prince is ready for Spring Training
Doctor gives Fielder a clean bill of health; GM Daniels says club could add veteran reliever
ARLINGTON -- Prince Fielder is ready for Spring Training.
Fielder, who underwent neck surgery last May, was examined by Dr. Drew Dossett on Monday and given a clean bill of health. Fielder is expected to be at full strength when the Rangers begin Spring Training later this month.
Fielder played in just 42 games for the Rangers in 2014 before undergoing surgery on May 27 to repair a herniated disk in his neck. He ended up hitting .247 with three home runs, 16 RBIs and a .360 slugging percentage.
Video: Outlook: Fielder looks to bounce back after injury
Fielder said at FanFest last month that he is 100 percent ready to go and Dossett confirmed that on Monday.
Rangers pitchers and catchers report on Feb. 19 with the first workout the following day. The first full squad workout is Feb. 26.
• General manager Jon Daniels said the club is still looking at the possibility of adding a veteran reliever. Said Daniels, "We're still looking at different possibilities both free agent and trade. We may go into Spring Training and see how guys look and see if they are healthy. In the end it comes down to performance. There is an element of makeup, accountability and leadership but they've got to get the job done."
• Daniels said shortstop Elvis Andrus has been "very impressive" with his off-season workouts. Said Daniels, "He sat down with the staff at the end of the year and set out some physical conditioning goals and his routine. He met every one of those goals."
• Manager Jeff Banister on competition in the outfield and in the rotation: "It comes down to men working out and competing for a job. When you bring players into camp, the opportunity to compete for a job brings out the best and also shows some warts. Competition is our best barometer. We're looking for somebody to put their foot down and take a job."