Twins Lock Up Mauer

The Minnesota Twins signed their 23 year old catcher and reigning AL batting champion Joe Mauer to a 4 year, $33 million deal today. According to the terms of the contract, he earns more with each passing year, culminating with a $12.5 million payday in the final year of the deal.

Twins GM Terry Ryan said, "This is a market deal. Don't worry about that."

Well, it's certainly a good contract given the financial limitations of the Twins, but I have a hard time believing that if Mauer was allowed to hit the open market that he wouldn't make a good bit more. A 23 year old batting champion playing at a premium position with the potential to be one of the all-time greats? If J.D. Drew can make upwards of $70 million, then what would Mauer be offered if the Yankees or Red Sox or Mets had gotten a chance?

That being said, smart of the Twins to not let it get to that point.

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