I would guess that, more often than not, the identity of the clubhouse's true leader(s) becomes evident only in the rearview mirror. But like it or not, it's Joe Mauer's team for the foreseeable future.
True. Batting seventh is already nature's way of telling you that you'd better have a reason beyond your bat if you hope to continue collecting major league meal money.
You've put your finger on the problem: putting the ball in play. After his taking another third strike, I think he's high enough there at seventh. He takes enough walks to supplement the BA, his ISO is better than league average. But he needs to improve the batting average before you want him at cleanup.