Joe Mauer in a Historical Context

[Brad Swanson]

This internet dork thinks Joe Mauer is a Hall of Famer:

 

Ode to Joe - Puckett's Pond - A Minnesota Twins Fan Site - News, Blogs, Opinion and More

 

What does everyone here think?

[Alex]

Well done. I've had the same impression as you, watching a player that deserves to be immortalized, but love the numbers perspective.

[glunn]

Interesting article. Based on his numbers, Mauer appears to be on track if he can stay healthy. I worry about his knees.

[70charger]

He's absolutely on track. 3-5 more years of 2012 (not even 2009!), and he's a shoo-in. One more 2009 and it isn't even a question anymore.

[Brad Swanson]

I was actually surprised at how well he fares against other catchers. You can make the case that he is a top 3 all-time offensive catcher right now, even without gaudy power numbers. His elite OBP really helps.

[Alex]

I was actually surprised at how well he fares against other catchers. You can make the case that he is a top 3 all-time offensive catcher right now, even without gaudy power numbers. His elite OBP really helps.

 

Honestly it was a great breakdown with how he ranks among other hitters as well as catchers. The argument against his greatness that people have about him not playing enough catcher and having to switch positions eventually have been put to rest.

[ashbury]

There's no question in my mind that Mauer's been on a HOF track since nearly the get-go. I think this article cherry-picks a little and overstates some things, which is not necessary to establish his credentials.

 

Here's my Ode To Joe:

 

Roses are red

Violets are blue

I like Joe

And so should you

[ThePuck]

I would have added that:

 

He's the only catcher to ever lead the majors in BA for a season.

He's the only catcher to ever lead his league in BA/OBP/SLG%.

He's the only AL catcher to win a batting title.

He's the only MLB catcher to ever win 3 batting titles.

 

That's a lot of positive 'only'.

[kab21]

there's almost no doubt that Joe becomes a HOF'er at this point. Sure it would help if he had a few more above average seasons to pad his stats but that starts bringing him into first ballot territory. Yes, first ballot territory.

[Riverbrian]

Joe will find a spot in Cooperstown... No doubt in my mind. At the very least... No one will ever wear #7 in a Twins Uniform again.