Joe Mauer content with return to action with the Minnesota Twins
The Minnesota Twins look ready to take the challenge of the forthcoming 2011 Major League Baseball season to the next level. Joe Mauer made his humble return to the batting circuit when he engaged in his first Spring Training game, ever since he went out
of the baseball season, last year, following a right knee surgery.
The player made his first appearance in the Grapefruit League against the New York Mets and impressed manager, Ron Gardenhire with a feisty single shot down the middle of the ground off Mike Pelfrey’s pitching. The regular Twins’ catcher was content on his
return and added some At-Bats to his belt as he ran extra bases off error throws. He has been trying to shake off the rust on his legs and was willing to talk about his track back to fitness.
"It was good to get out there," Mauer said. "I just felt like I had some ankle weights on my legs. Just a little tired, normal for the first time getting out there for Spring Training. But at the plate, I felt good. The swing felt good."
"It's just getting your baseball legs underneath you," he added. "Everybody goes through it. Our guys who are out there playing right now went through it a couple weeks ago when games started. So to get three at-bats and run around a little bit today, it
was definitely a good day."
Mauer was playing aside Justin Morneau, who also made his first spring start this year, following a recovery from concussion that has taken a year to take effect.
"I thought about it when I was on first base, a little close to him," Mauer said with a laugh.
Mauer went on to tell the reporters that he has been nervous in situations like these before but it is good to see Morneau hitting and fielding well on the field. Mauer was hopeful to see everyone from the injuries’ list back out on the ground before the
regular season kicks off. Michael Cuddyer was referred to, in this respect.
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