Joe Mauer came out in his catcher’s gear one last time

There’s been a lot of speculation about whether or not Joe Mauer was going to retire after this season. 2018 was the last year of Mauer’s eight-year contract, so everything was sort of up for question.

I’ve been to every Twins gave for the past few days, but nothing prepared me for today.

First of all, Joe’s twin daughters surprised him at first base when the lineups were announced.

RIGHT?

He got a standing ovation every time he came up to bat. The last time Mauer came out, though, was special. It was really special.

I obviously wish more than anything that I could hug my Mom. My Mom — who had 81-season tickets for twelve years, and frequently boasted about seeing Mauer’s first game — was on an airplane, still probably hasn’t landed, and doesn’t know what happened. She wasn’t with me because she moved to California, and I don’t know when or if I will ever see her again.

My boyfriend, thankfully, was there, as was my best friend who went with me to countless games back in the day, watching Mauer. I cried and hugged both of them. It was an emotional day for me.

But, Joe, thank you. Thank you so much.