Joseph Patrick Mauer

As Spring Training progressed, it became more apparent that the Minnesota Twins would extend the contract of the best hitter in baseball, Joe Mauer. Today, the announcement came that the two sides have agreed to an 8 year/$184 million contract, ensuring Mauer would remain a Twin through 2018. There's obviously a lot to like about this deal. Mauer would have commanded much more in terms of both years and money had he hit the open market next season. The Yankees, with an aging Jorge Posada, would no doubt be chomping at the bit and make every resource available in attempting to court Mauer. While the contract was still significant in terms of annual salary ($23 million), it was considered a hometown discount. This contract does not significantly handcuff the Twins financially going forward. With only six years of experience, Mauer has already made over $20 million, not to mention the $5 .15 million signing bonus he received in 2001 when Minnesota drafted him. Being born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, he clearly made staying in 'Sota a priority. It's refreshing to see a player of his caliber with that kind of attitude. It's Joe being Joe, a stark contrast to the aloof and often times absent-minded Manny Ramirez.

The only fault I could find is that Mauer's already 26, meaning he would be 34 when the contract concludes and making what I assume will be over $30 million given the typical backloaded and deferred contracts most stars sign. Aside from the freak of nature that is Pudge Rodriguez, most catchers have difficulty remaining healthy past 30 years of age. The wear and tear is just too much for average catchers, let alone the best catcher in the league and leader of the team who will feel pressured to play as much as possible to fulfill the mega-contract he signed. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire is a brilliant baseball mind and will need to be forceful enough to sit Joe when the situation calls for it, regardless of the objections he might receive from his backstop and the fans. Luckily Minnesota can DH Mauer occasionally, relieving him of his catching duties while keeping his offensive production in the line-up. Discount aside, $184 million is a lot of money for a traditionally small market team. While they have been more generous of late, a contract of this stature can only make the remaining money to be spent shrink significantly. Will this translate to higher ticket prices? It remains to be seen. The full no-trade clause included in the deal may also make things difficult for the Twins down the road, should they fall from contention in American League Central. While Mauer would likely okay a trade to a contender, limiting the list of potential suitors only weakens Minnesota's bargaining power and could diminish the quality and quantity of players exchanged.

Overall, it's a great day to be a Minnesota fan. The future is bright, despite the unfortunate news for Joe Nathan and his elbow difficulties. This signing makes the Twins a contender for years to come.