According to Minnesota Twins manager Ron Gardenhire, Joe Mauer(notes) will start at first base when the Twins visit the White Sox on July 7. After years of speculation, the day finally has come where Mauer and the Twins have decided that he is too important to the team to play just two-thirds of his team's games at the much more physical catching position.
As a fan, moving Mauer to first is a smart move that makes a ton of sense. It keeps his bat in the lineup without having to use him as the designated hitter. It's a move the Twins at least have to try if they want to move up in the standings of the American League Central.
There's no doubt that Mauer can adapt at first base. While he may need a week or two to get acclimated to the position, it isn't like he isn't athletic enough to play there.
And for those worrying that Mauer will lose his touch in the batter's box after leaving the position that got him to where he is today, I present to you a little evidence that should turn your frowns upside down.
Back in the 1980s and 1990s, there was a player named B.J. Surhoff that started as a catcher for the Milwaukee Brewers. From 1987 to 1995, Surhoff played catcher and had a batting average of .273 and 57 home runs during that time. After he became a Baltimore Oriole in 1996, Surhoff moved to third base and the outfield. Leaving his natural position paid dividends as he hit .288 with 131 dingers during the rest of his career that ended in 2005.
Surhoff thrived after moving from behind the dish and Mauer can do the same thing. Not only is Mauer a cut above Surhoff in terms of his abilities, he is a better athlete.
Surhoff was at best an above average major league ballplayer. Mauer is a former MVP and three-time batting champ. If he can't make a seamless transition, then his career and the Twins are in trouble.
No comments:
Post a Comment