Joe Mauer buys leather jacket

Minnesota Twins first baseman Joe Mauer confirmed to reporters on Thursday that he purchased a leather jacket in the offseason.

“I’ve had my eye on one for a long time,” said the former AL batting champ. “It was just a matter of finding the right fit and one that I can wear in the winter when it’s not too drafty.”

The jacket, purchased at the Macy’s in Rosedale, is black with what a clubhouse source characterized as “a formidable amount” of zippers. The source said that, while it was somewhat out of character for the typically even-tempered Twins veteran, it wasn’t too surprising.

“He said ‘bullshit’ at least twice last year,” said the source. “He looked around to see if there were any kids or chaplains around, but he definitely said it.”

For his part, Mauer said he’s excited to wear the jacket on weather-appropriate days and on road trips.

“It’s like The Fonz,” said Mauer. “You know, ‘Ayyyyyyyyyyy, I’m The Fonz.’ Happy Days was pretty decent. Potsie and Ralph, those guys.”

Mauer did say there were obstacles to the purchase.

“Mom was pretty skeptical,” said the St. Paul native. “She thought it would mean I was in a gang, but I told her that’s not really true. She’s still pretty ticked, but Jake (Mauer, Joe’s older brother) just bought a motorcycle, so that kinda got me off the hook.

“Motorcycles are pretty dangerous,” Mauer added. “Mom’s got a point there.”

Twins pitchers and catchers report for spring training on February 14th.