Thanks Joe Mauer! By signing your new contract you have taken another step foward in your evolution of becoming Minnesota's next baseball hero.
Certainly, thanks also goes to Twins General Manager Terry Ryan and Mauer's agent, who both recognized the Twins catcher's potential and value in Minnesota.
Mauer, who had recently filed for arbitration, agreed Sunday to a four-year, $33 million contract that will keep the St. Paul native in a Twins uniform until at least 2010 -- when the Twins new stadium is scheduled to open.
Mauer, who will turn 24 in April, is now financially secure for life.
The Twins have made a major investment, which on paper appears a wise financial decision, as Mauer comes with a lot of positives.
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* He is a Minnesota native.
* He was the No. 1 overall draft pick out of St. Paul's Cretin-Derham Hall High School in 2001.
* He hit .347 last year to become the first catcher in history to lead the major leagues in hitting.
* He has become one of the marketing faces of the Twins.
* He is a budding superstar in the American League.
The Twins didn't get a financial break due to Mauer's hometown connections, and the catcher is now the fourth highest paid in the major leagues at his position.
Like Mauer's grandfather, Jack Mauer, we were glad to hear of this new contract.
It will be great to enjoy Mauer's homegrown talents right here in Minnesota for the next few years.
