Joe Mauer

 

Americans love baseball more than any other sport and always will.  As such we tend to place those inducted into the Hall of Fame on a much higher pedestal.  Some twenty-thousand-five-hundred (20,500) players have played in the major leagues.  Only 273 players have made into the Hall of Fame.  That’s a mere 1.3%.

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                         St. Paul Cretin H.S. to the Hall of Fame

Everyone believes that Joe Mauer’s talent was so incredible that his trip to the Hall of Fame came relatively easy – “Piece of Cake.”  We need to challenge that belief. 

Yes, he excelled in football, basketball and well…as far as baseball is concerned, we will let Justin Morneau capsulize that in the video below.     

Let’s begin with his being the number one draft choice in baseball by the Minnesota Twins.  Many of us thought that was simply a ploy by the Twins to sell tickets.  Major league team drafts hometown boy.  One avid baseball fan who questioned that pick was told by a minor league pitcher, after playing against Mauer that; “Mauer is the real deal.”  So, Joe came to the majors amid speculation that his ability and talent were blown out of proportion.  What Joe had to prove and what we quickly learned is that Joe Mauer was no Miguel Sano or Byron Buxton.  

Next, he signed the richest contract in baseball.  Many, to this very day, begrudge his getting paid what he was worth.  That jealous anger will never subside.  What always made this interesting is when the question was posed; “If Joe doesn’t get the dough who does?”  The answer to that question is even more distasteful than the dough Joe was paid. 

Then came all the injuries. The time Mauer missed playing was a real annoyance.  During one prolonged absence it was impossible to know what was really ailing him and whether he was receiving the correct treatment.  The Twins told us one thing while Mauer told us yet another.  Mauer was so frustrated that he sought medical advice and treatment beyond the Twins organization.  

His presence in the lineup was crucial.  When he finally did return, he could have been slated to be the team’s designated hitter.  Joe didn’t take the easy way out.  Even though he was the very best catcher of his era he agreed to learn a new position.  As such he moved to first base.  He struggled when learning the position but eventually turned himself into an excellent first baseman.

Then there was the one time he bunted the ball.  We hadn't  seen ridiculous outrage like that since Roger Maris bunted home a winning run for the New York Yankees in 1961. 

Finally, there was the never-ending criticism surrounding his demeanor.  Many believed he should be the team leader.  He should be the most vocal element in the clubhouse.  He should lead the way in marshalling the forces when needed.  Mauer never allowed anyone to compromise or force abandonment of his quiet humility.

 “Easy – Piece of Cake????”  Joe Mauer earned every penny he was paid for beyond his remarkable performance were the many struggles and adversities he had to endure and overcome.  Through it all, he never failed to perform more than adequately.  Mauer hit over .300 with men on base, men in scoring position and when the bases were loaded.  He has clearly earned the Hall of Fame.

Yet, in the end, what so very many of us have admired most about Joe Mauer is that for fifteen (15) years the only uniform adorned by the superstar was that of the Minnesota Twins. 

Way to go Joe.  We love ya!!!!! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrT7btR22CM

     Grandson Drew " The Slugger" Wolfson With Joe Mauer