MLB: Joe Mauer Is A Lock For The Hall Of Fame
The other day, they released the names of the finalists for the 2024 MLB HOF Induction. The list included some big names. Like Rockies Legend 1B Todd Helton, and one of the best to play the “Hot Corner” 3B Adrian Beltre. But there is one guy on this list who is a total lock, and may even get close to a Ken Griffey Jr-type vote (99.3%). Twins Legend and one of the best Catchers to ever play the game, Joe Mauer.
Here are 3 reasons why the former #1 overall pick is a lock for Cooperstown next July.
Reason #1: 2009 MVP Season
If a former MVP doesn’t get into the Hall Of Fame, it’s because they were a flash in the pan. Didn’t amount to much except that one incredible season. Or maybe they weren’t good enough for long enough to make the cut. Either way, most of your MVPs go on to continue that level of play. In the 2009 season, Joe Mauer joined the illustrious club of being named MVP. Keeping a .996 Fielding% behind the plate. He also led all Major Leagues with a .365 AVG and a .444 OBP. Along with leading the American League in SLG% (.587) and OPS (1.031).
The St. Paul, MN native became just the 17th catcher to ever win the award. He now sits as one of only 3 catchers to win it in the past 25 years. Joining Ivan Rodriguez in 1999 and Buster Posey in 2012. It was his third time being top 10 in the voting during his career at the time.
Reason #2: Consistently Good At The Plate
Catchers aren’t always known for having an above average bat. Usually it’s their defensive prowess/strong arm that gets them recognition. Mauer got plenty of recognition for that side of the game, with 3 Gold Gloves. But he was quite good with the bat in his hands as well. Hitting over .300, 6 out of 15 seasons. And only hitting under .280, 3 out of 15 seasons. That made it so he could put 5 Silver Slugger, and 3 Batting Title Awards on his mantle at home.
When it was time to call it quits, Mauer’s career batting average sat at .306 with 2,123 hits.
Reason #3: The Way He Carried Himself
While he isn’t in the minority with this, it still helps his case. I can’t recall any off-field issues of his. He is always talked about so highly when brought up in sports media. There doesn’t seem to be many people that have a bone to pick with the 6x All-Star. You see lately, so many household names being kept out of HOF conversations due to off-field issues/allegations. Look at Barry Bonds, Manny Ramirez, and Pete Rose. Those three guys had amazing careers, but will they ever see the Hall? Probably not. Luckily for Mauer, he is not in that group. Which can only grow his chances of getting in with his resumè.
Those aren’t the only reasons why Joe Mauer is a lock for the HOF next July. They are 3 key reasons why he should be though.