With Joe Mauer signed through the 2018 season, the Twins are planning on using him as much as they can at first base. By releasing Parmalee and Colabello, the Twins have made that clear. Kennys Vargas will be giving him an occasional break when he's not DHing. Look for Mauer to get days off when Torii Hunter is given the DH slot.
Historically, most catchers offensive stats trail off sharply after age 30. The Twins had hoped to slow that trend by having him give up catching duties last season, but at age 32, Mauer's best years may very well be behind him.
There is some hope that Mauer's offensive struggles last year may have been caused by that late season 2013 concussion. IF that's the case, we could be seeing a much healthier Mauer this season. Doctors aren't sure. Neither is Mauer. All we know is that Mauer was not his usual self last season. And that another season like that won't bode well for the Twins.
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