Rangers' Prince Fielder: Expected to undergo surgery this week

Fielder (neck) is expected to undergo surgery later in the week, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Analysis:

The Rangers were hoping Fielder would be able to avoid surgery for the herniated disc in his neck, but after a meeting with another doctor Monday, it's been recommended that he undergoes what would be a season-ending procedure. The team has yet to offer official confirmation, but at this point it seems all but inevitable that Fielder remains sidelined until 2017. Assuming that is indeed the case, Mitch Moreland and Jurickson Profar will continue to serve as the top options at first base and designated hitter.