I have never once begrudged Mauer for his big contract. (maybe someone can comb through every thread, just to be sure.) However, if he comes back for 2019, I peg his salary at about 5 or 6 million, which of course would be a small discount on his expected war for 2019. I think there's a place for him on the team. If his side inexplicably demands multiple years or double figure millions, I'm not sure how long I negotiate, if I'm the front office.