Joe Mauer Is "Much Stronger" Than Past Seasons

Mike Sixel · January 26, 2016

Isn't it typical for a catcher being moved to a new position to take a couple years to get back into the groove?

That seems unlikely. You think most teams would wait three years before a guy is good again?

Otto von Ballpark · January 26, 2016

I get that he's a bit controversial

It's about time Mauer got a new walk-up song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0pewqF8POE

ScrapTheNickname · January 26, 2016

I'm glad to see he is making an effort (golf gut pic inserted here).

Maybe he should get his vision prescription tested again too. No joke, I had 20-12 vision until I turned 40, and it's been all downhill since.

Everything else goes downhill, your eyes just take the lead.

Shane Wahl · January 26, 2016

I care way more about any lingering cobwebs up in the noggin'.

Yoshii · January 26, 2016

Mauer Power Bilateral Arm Weakness Mauer.

dgwills · January 26, 2016

Glad to hear he's working on strength training. It's probably the best thing he can do to stay competitive as he ages. Hope it works.

TheLeviathan · January 27, 2016

We're going to get bombarded by stuff like this. Wake me up when it's May and then tell me why he has or hasn't improved his play.

bird · January 27, 2016

Yes, it was brutal and embarassing. However, in Joe's defense he probably lost the race because he whimped out and avoided contact. It's difficult to believe this guy was recruited to play college football.

That's a defense?

ashbury · January 27, 2016

It's about time Mauer got a new walk-up song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0pewqF8POE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwyLOkbO5nw

Otto von Ballpark · January 27, 2016

It's about time Mauer got a new walk-up song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0pewqF8POE

Another embed attempt:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0pewqF8POE

gmarais66 · January 27, 2016

Of course it's important to stay in good shape, especially with Mauer's injury history. However, maybe he should have taken a page out of the Tony Gwynn hitting book and spent a good chunk of the winter analyzing his swing and hitting approach, figuring out how to fix what has gone wrong.

DrNeau · January 28, 2016

Interesting that fans have been informed by both the Star Tribune and Pioneer Press that Joe is "much stronger than in past seasons".

A noteworthy observation I've seen has been if someone implies a player may not have adequately trained, they are quickly dismissed - as they are unqualified to make such a remark, as (A) they do not spend 24 hours a day with the player, and ( B ) they are not a professional physical trainer. With these arguments, it sets a foundation that is impossible for a fan to comment.

I must mention that Charley Walters is neither a professional physical trainer, nor does he spend 24 hours per day with any player. Jim Souhan at the Star Tribune made a comment the other day about Glen Perkins, saying that he "needs to prove he can condition himself to pitch well for a full season". I must add that he is also neither a professional physical trainer, and also does not spend 24 hours per day with any player. If it is acceptable for a sports writer who is not a live-in pro physical trainer to comment positively about a player's physical condition, a sports writer's negative comments about a player's physical condition must also be accepted. Again, the initial post consists of sports writer's reports, as well as quotes directly from Joe.

The time is coming very soon, and we will see if Joe has truly gained strength.

All this being said, I am rooting for Joe, and hope he hits .330 with 20 bombs. At the same time, I am concerned how many more excuses we will hear.

DrNeau · January 30, 2016

http://www.snappytv.com/snaps/upper-body-workout-time-for-an-upper-body-workout-joe-puts-about-spotlight-joe-mauer-all-access-on-foxsportsnorthcom

Here is a very relevant video I found.

Squirrel · January 30, 2016

http://www.snappytv.com/snaps/upper-body-workout-time-for-an-upper-body-workout-joe-puts-about-spotlight-joe-mauer-all-access-on-foxsportsnorthcom

Here is a very relevant video I found.

This video was posted 1428 days ago ... so ... roughly 4 years ago ... how is that relevant to this current discussion of where Joe is now?

Brock Beauchamp · January 31, 2016

I must mention that Charley Walters is neither a professional physical trainer, nor does he spend 24 hours per day with any player. Jim Souhan at the Star Tribune made a comment the other day about Glen Perkins, saying that he "needs to prove he can condition himself to pitch well for a full season". I must add that he is also neither a professional physical trainer, and also does not spend 24 hours per day with any player. If it is acceptable for a sports writer who is not a live-in pro physical trainer to comment positively about a player's physical condition, a sports writer's negative comments about a player's physical condition must also be accepted. Again, the initial post consists of sports writer's reports, as well as quotes directly from Joe.

Terry Ryan himself has commented on Perkins' training, or lack thereof. That opens the door for a real examination how Glen goes about his business.

From the Twins Daily Offseason Handbook:

Twins Daily: Does Glen Perkins’ second-half performance the last two years change anything about the way you approach building the bullpen this offseason?

Terry Ryan: Well, it may change some things in his mind on how he wants to go about his business and preparation.

No one in a position of knowledge has ever questioned Mauer's work ethic.

It baffles me how people can believe a guy who spent his prime as the best contact hitter in all of baseball - one of the top ten catchers of all time - is... Lazy. One doesn't become the best all-around player in the world (as Joe was in 2009) on accident. Sheer talent cannot catapault a person to the top of their field. Only hard work and dedication can boost an already-talented person to the top.

That doesn't free Mauer from all criticism but it does mean a person needs more than anecdotal quotes and a heaping of speculation to assert their position with any kind of certainty.

EddieMatthews · January 31, 2016

I hope it's true. News from the TwinsFest has a lot of reports of Twins who are in better shape. Nolasco, Hughes, Graham, Arcia, now Mauer. Maybe the near miss for the 2015 payoffs has inspired the whole team to report stronger, lighter, quicker.

The results should create good competition for the 25 roster spots. Maybe Molitor can convert this into ten more wins.

Thrylos · January 31, 2016

Isn't it typical for a catcher being moved to a new position to take a couple years to get back into the groove?

That is an interesting question. Mike Napoli, Craig Biggio and Carlos Santana are 3 examples I can think of quickly. Santana had no problem making the transition, Biggio improved a ton right away and Napoli was better the year after the transition. With the bat. Any others one can think of?

old nurse · January 31, 2016

Roger Erickson. Roger Erickson. Don't know why, but for some funny reason this name sounds familiar. (wonder whether they are related)

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/erickro01.shtml

DrNeau · January 31, 2016

It is relevant because it is footage of how Joe trains. As claims have been made that he is "much stronger" than in past seasons, it is natural to seek information on his workout habits. Especially enjoyed the 30-minute drill where he sits on the floor and spins his feet around.

http://www.snappytv.com/snaps/upper-body-workout-time-for-an-upper-body-workout-joe-puts-about-spotlight-joe-mauer-all-access-on-foxsportsnorthcom

Curious what he has done to gain strength. I'm also curious who is qualified enough to make the statement that he has gained strength. Maybe a live-in personal pro trainer? I guess this gained strength can't be verified. Last spring, we read quite a few articles about Mauer's newly found "pull power", too. We'll see about all of this very soon.

nicksaviking · February 1, 2016

Are we really demanding some kind of verification of Mauer's added strength? Anyone hoping for before and after weight lifting videos better not hold their breath.

Strength probably isn't a very good attribute to question anyway. Historically, strength does tend to increase or remain consistent for aging athletes. It's reaction time, speed, stamina and quickness that are the typical attributes that decline.

I'm also wondering if the concern over strength is still in terms of his HR totals; strength alone isn't going to increase those numbers. His lack of power is due to his extremely level swing which generates minimal lift, and Mauer's tendency to wait so long on pitches that contact occurs in the back of the zone as opposed to the front (Hat tip to past Parker analysis). Unless he changes his swing and approach, I don't think increased strength is going to show up as HR numbers.

The Wise One · February 1, 2016

That is an interesting question. Mike Napoli, Craig Biggio and Carlos Santana are 3 examples I can think of quickly. Santana had no problem making the transition, Biggio improved a ton right away and Napoli was better the year after the transition. With the bat. Any others one can think of?

Any of them have the concussions and post concussion syndrome like Mauer?

KGB · February 1, 2016

Any of them have the concussions and post concussion syndrome like Mauer?

How do you know Mauer has post concussion syndrome? Mauer has said that he has no issues since October 2013.

Just because his production has dropped, doesn't mean he has post concussion syndrome.

DrNeau · February 1, 2016

Are we really demanding some kind of verification of Mauer's added strength? Anyone hoping for before and after weight lifting videos better not hold their breath.

Not as much demanding verification as much as making a point: It seems that speculating he has gained strength is acceptable discussion, while speculation to the contrary is unacceptable discussion. I agree on your other point regarding strength; bat speed by far outweighs strength. I will take an explosively torqued swing over simple strength any day. These things being said, it can't hurt to add core strength.

I also agree with your point that it would be helpful for him to mix up his approach once in a while. Thanks for mentioning. He cannot continue to automatically start 0-1 in every at bat. Most 3-hole hitters gear up and look for something to drive early in the count. In Mauer's case, there are many at bats where he does not even swing hard once. Very odd for a 3 hitter. Take strike one, foul off strike two, then, when behind in the count, chasing and flailing while needing to protect the plate. Would be worth considering slipping in a big hack at that first strike down the middle once in a while.

You made the comment about Mauer's tendency to make contact "in the back of the zone as opposed to the front". I agree fully. Seeing him gear up for a fastball and drive the bat head out to the front of the zone would be nice. Players call that "cheating on a pitch". Can't hurt to keep the pitchers honest and make them aware you can hurt them for grooving one down the pipe. We heard an overflow of reports last year that Mauer has found new “pull power”. A few of the stories are linked below.

http://www.nj.com/phillies/index.ssf/2015/03/mauer_hits_1st_spring_homer_twins_beat_phillies.html
http://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/baseball/news/twins-joe-mauer-improving-power-to-right-field/
http://www.twincities.com/2015/04/02/twins-joe-mauer-ready-for-reboot-after-offseason-makeover/

As there are so many reports about Mauer’s gained power and strength, it’s good us fans can discuss. Hopefully he’ll make some of the adjustments you mentioned.

HitInAPinch · February 1, 2016

That is an interesting question. Mike Napoli, Craig Biggio and Carlos Santana are 3 examples I can think of quickly. Santana had no problem making the transition, Biggio improved a ton right away and Napoli was better the year after the transition. With the bat. Any others one can think of?

In the early 70's the Dodgers had 2 catchers that they moved to other positions. Joe Ferguson and Steve Yeager. As I remember it, Ferguson hit for some power and was moved to RF when Yeager arrived. Ferguson got traded because Yeager was far better defensively. Yeager never really hit.

tobi0040 · February 1, 2016

Terry Ryan himself has commented on Perkins' training, or lack thereof. That opens the door for a real examination how Glen goes about his business.

From the Twins Daily Offseason Handbook:

No one in a position of knowledge has ever questioned Mauer's work ethic.

It baffles me how people can believe a guy who spent his prime as the best contact hitter in all of baseball - one of the top ten catchers of all time - is... Lazy. One doesn't become the best all-around player in the world (as Joe was in 2009) on accident. Sheer talent cannot catapault a person to the top of their field. Only hard work and dedication can boost an already-talented person to the top.

That doesn't free Mauer from all criticism but it does mean a person needs more than anecdotal quotes and a heaping of speculation to assert their position with any kind of certainty.

At 18 he was the best baseball player in the US and I am guessing top 5 or 10 football player. Also pretty hard to do if you are lazy.

I think 99% of the criticism is the contract.

Brock Beauchamp · February 1, 2016

I think 99% of the criticism is the contract.

Yep. Without that contract, people are disappointed in Joe but move on to more interesting topics.

tobi0040 · February 1, 2016

Yep. Without that contract, people are disappointed in Joe but move on to more interesting topics.

Agree. Disapointment without the resent would remove the lightning rod

DrNeau · February 1, 2016

Putting aside both the contract and the fact that I wish for Joe to turn things around, the production level itself is an issue.

.265 BA, 10 HR, 66 RBI, .718 OPS

There were 31 first basemen with at least 400 plate appearances in 2015. Also, considering there are only 30 teams, it's concerning that Mauer ranked 27th. This holds true to any player, at any position. If a player's production is near the bottom in the entire MLB for that position, that player will be discussed. Additionally, if fans are barraged with stories of that player's gained strength and power, they are likely to respond in some way, as the stories do not match up with the statistics.

Brock Beauchamp · February 1, 2016

Additionally, if fans are barraged with stories of that player's gained strength and power, they are likely to respond in some way, as the stories do not match up with the statistics.

Or it could have absolutely nothing to do with Joe's strength or training.

I subscribe to both KISS and Occam's Razor as often as possible.

Joe was a very good player. He OPSed around .850 every season of his career except an injury-plagued and truly bizarre 2011 season. He returned to baseball and was once again a very good player in 2012 and 2013.

Joe gets a knock to the head. Joe spends a lot of time bouncing between "close to ready" and "dunno, check back later".

Joe returns to playing baseball. Joe is no longer a good hitter.

It seems pretty straight forward to me.

jharaldson · February 1, 2016

I subscribe to both KISS and Occam's Razor as often as possible.

Joe was a very good player. He OPSed around .850 every season of his career except an injury-plagued and truly bizarre 2011 season. He returned to baseball and was once again a very good player in 2012 and 2013.

Joe gets a knock to the head. Joe spends a lot of time bouncing between "close to ready" and "dunno, check back later".

Joe returns to playing baseball. Joe is no longer a good hitter.

It seems pretty straight forward to me.

I personally think this is too simplistic. Let's look at his K%:

2004-2010 – 9.8%

2011 – 11.4%

2012 – 13.7%

2013 – 17.5%

Concussion

2014 – 18.5%

2015 – 16.8%

His increase in strikeouts came almost completely before the concussion. This was hidden by luck in BABIP. in 2012 he hit 20 points over his career BABIP and in 2013 that went up to 39 points over.

I personally prescribe to a ranked theory of the Mauer decline as opposed to the single cause KISS theory of concussion only:

1. Age (Time at catcher, injuries prior to concussion, ect...).

2. Concussion.

3. Defensive shifts.

4. Change in strikezone.

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