Joe Mauer Scouting Report

Name: Joe Mauer
Number: 7
Position: Catcher
Born: 4/19/1983
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 225
Debut: 4/5/2004

Scouting Report: Joe Mauer has evolved into arguably the best hitter in baseball which is quite a statement. Mauer has always been a line drive hitter who has finally developed his power that so many scouts thought he would eventually develop. He has incredible hand-eye coordination with very fast wrists. This in combination with his understanding of the strike zone and recognition of pitches very quickly after their release make him a very dangerous two strike hitter. Mauer stays inside the ball well and drives the ball extremely well to left and left center. Not only has he developed power but he has miraculously done so without sacraficing average or plate discipline. One of the toughest outs in baseball for a pitcher to record.

While everyone knows Mauer is an offensive dynamo, what many forget is what a great receiver he is behind the plate. Mauer has won back-to-back Gold Gloves and is a top notch catcher. He moves with ease behind the plate from side-to-side and blocks balls in the dirt very well especially for someone as tall as he is (6-foot-5). Mauer also has a solid arm which helps keep runners honest and takes pressure off his pitchers ont he mound. He is a very intelligent player who calls a solid game and handles his staff very well.

All in all Joe Mauer has not only become the best player in baseball at his position, but one of the best overall players in the game today. The future is very bright for this young Minnesota native.

[Photo courtesy of twinscards.com]