Will Prince Fielder end up a Cub?

MLBTradeRumors.com looked ahead this week to the market for Prince Fielder once he becomes a free agent after the 2011 season. The more I read about this topic the more I think it's likely he'll become a Cub. As much as that idea pains me, it will be his loss for joining a team with 100 years of losing behind them, and likely 100 more ahead of them.

Use the link above to read the whole article or continue here for the reasons he's likely to become a Cub.

I think the Cubs have the best shot at getting Prince after 2011. Most of the traditional big-spenders should not have a need for a first baseman at that time, but several remain in the mix, including the Cubs.

The Cubs have some big contracts coming off the books just in time to bid for Fielder, and their current first baseman, Carlos Pena, signed a one year deal that will expire at the end of this season. They've been seeking a left-handed power bat for years, since even before they picked up Milton Bradley for the 2009 season. The Cubs know firsthand how dangerous Prince can be at the plate given how frequently they see him each year. Plus, he's batted .323 with 11 homers and 33 RBI in 42 games at Wrigley Field. Of course, anything can happen once Prince hits the open market after this season. It's even possible, though unlikely, that the Brewers re-sign him. Here's hoping we don't have to stomach Prince in a Cubs' uniform at Miller Park in 2012.