Joe Mauer had hernia surgery about three weeks ago at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, according to his grandfather Jake. The Twins catcher has been bothered by hernia problems in the past including last season but Jake said his grandson is “doing real well” now. “He’s pain free and ready to go,” Jake said.
Earlier in the fall the plan was no surgery. However, more recently it was determined the severity of the hernia warranted surgery, Jake said.
Joe is at his home in Florida, working out, playing golf and relaxing. He will continue conditioning in Florida next month, following a brief Christmas stay in Minnesota, according to his grandfather.
Not only did Joe have a hernia problem last season, but he missed several weeks with a quadriceps injury. He was in 109 games, after playing in 140 in 2006. The American League batting champion in 2006 with a .347 average, he hit .293 last season. The Twins missed his home run and RBI production, too, with those numbers declining from 13 home runs and 84 RBI in 2006, to seven home runs and 60 RBI. Regarded as one of baseball’s better catchers, Mauer’s defensive and leadership skills were missed by the Twins when he wasn’t healthy or able to play.
Jake said Joe was “down on himself” because of the injuries. Some may describe Joe as an old-fashioned athlete who doesn’t complain and keeps frustrations to himself. Jake said Joe told him he has to have a better season in 2008.
The 24-year-old Mauer is regarded as one of baseball’s most valuable properties. A story earlier this year in the Sporting News named Mauer as THE player to build a team around. Six of the 12 baseball evaluators (including major league general managers) preferred Mauer as the player to start a franchise with.
Jake said Joe doesn’t say a word about the Twins roster changes that include the departure of Torii Hunter and possible trade of Johan Santana. His view is the Twins “know what they’re doing,” according to Jake.