Cecil Fielder Net Worth

Cecil Fielder’s Net Worth: A Look at the Baseball Power Hitter’s Career and Finances

Introduction

Cecil Fielder, a name synonymous with power hitting in Major League Baseball, left an indelible mark on the sport during the 1980s and 1990s. This article delves into Cecil Fielder’s net worth, exploring his baseball career, financial successes, and personal life. From his early days to his time as a high-earning player, we’ll examine the various facets of his life that contributed to his wealth and legacy.

Early Life and Baseball Beginnings

Cecil Grant Fielder was born on September 21, 1963, in Los Angeles, California. His journey to professional baseball began with a strong foundation in his youth. During his high school years at Nogales High School in La Puente, Fielder showcased his athletic prowess, earning the distinction of an All-American on the baseball team in 1981. This early recognition set the stage for his collegiate career at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he played for the UNLV Rebels, further honing his skills and attracting the attention of professional scouts. These formative years were crucial in shaping the future slugger, building the foundation for his powerful presence in the major leagues.

MLB Career Highlights

Cecil Fielder’s MLB career, spanning from 1985 to 1998, was marked by impressive power hitting and significant achievements. Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1981, he later played for the Kansas City Royals before being traded to the Toronto Blue Jays. His professional debut with the Blue Jays on June 20, 1985, marked the beginning of a memorable career. Over the years, Fielder played for several teams, including the Hanshin Tigers in Japan, the Detroit Tigers, the New York Yankees, the Anaheim Angels, and the Cleveland Indians. His time with the Detroit Tigers, from 1990 to 1996, was particularly notable, where he established himself as a premier power hitter. Fielder was a key part of the Yankees’ 1996 World Series-winning team, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Throughout his career, he was recognized with three MLB All-Star selections (1990, 1991, 1993) and two Silver Slugger Awards (1990, 1991), solidifying his status as one of the league’s top hitters. He led the American League in home runs in both 1990 and 1991 and topped the league in runs batted in three times (1990-1992). His remarkable ability to hit for both average and power made him a feared presence in the batter’s box.

Fielder finished his career with a .255 batting average, 319 home runs, and over 1,000 RBIs, cementing his legacy as a formidable offensive force. He also holds the distinction of being the first player to hit 50 home runs in a season since George Foster accomplished the feat 13 years prior, demonstrating his exceptional power and impact on the game.

Contracts and Earnings

Early in his career, Fielder’s earnings were modest, with a salary of $125,000 per season during his time with the Toronto Blue Jays. His career took a significant turn in 1989 when he signed with the Hanshin Tigers of Japan for $1.05 million, which would be equivalent to almost $2 million today. The financial peak of his career came in 1993 when he signed a five-year, $36 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. This deal made him the highest-paid player in baseball for two seasons, reflecting his value and impact on the game. Over his MLB career, Cecil Fielder earned an estimated $47 million in salary. His earnings reflect not only his skill but also the evolving economics of professional baseball during the late 20th century.

Jeff Carlick /Allsport

Personal Life and Post-Retirement Activities

Following his retirement from professional baseball, Cecil Fielder’s personal life made headlines due to several reported incidents. These events, which came to light after his divorce, included alleged domestic and gambling issues. Fielder later filed a libel suit against a newspaper and a lead reporter, accusing them of slander and defamation, and sought $25 million in damages. However, the trial court dismissed the suit, and the Michigan Court of Appeals upheld this decision.

A significant aspect of Fielder’s personal life involved the career of his son, Prince Fielder, who also became a highly successful power hitter. Cecil played an active role in Prince’s early professional career, even negotiating his first contract. A subsequent dispute arose regarding Cecil’s entitlement to an agent’s fee, which led to a period of strained communication between father and son. However, in a 2012 interview, Cecil mentioned that they had resumed communication, highlighting the complexities and dynamics of family relationships within the world of professional sports.

In his post-playing career, Cecil Fielder remained involved in baseball. He managed the South Coast League’s Charlotte County Redfish in 2007 and the Atlantic City Surf of the Canadian-American Association of Professional Baseball in 2008. In March 2011, he was appointed to the advisory board of the Torrington Titans, further demonstrating his continued connection to the sport.

The Florida Mansion

In 1995, Cecil Fielder purchased an impressive 25,000-square-foot mansion located in Melbourne, Florida. The lavish property featured 12 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, and was situated on a sprawling 5.2-acre estate. In March 2008, Fielder listed the mansion for sale with an asking price of $5.58 million. After some time on the market, he eventually sold the property in June 2010 for $1.276 million. The sale marked the end of an era, reflecting changes in Fielder’s personal and financial circumstances. For those interested in seeing the property, a video tour of the mansion is available:

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Conclusion

Cecil Fielder’s career is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent. From his early beginnings to his peak as a high-earning MLB star, Fielder’s journey is a compelling narrative of athletic achievement and financial success. His impact on baseball, both as a player and as a father, continues to resonate, making him a memorable figure in the sport’s history.