Newly-minted MVP could have new deal by Christmas

Mauer: A new deal under the tree?
Newly minted AL MVP Joe Mauer is one reason next winter’s free-agent class is already anticipated as more upscale than the current pool, but the talented catcher could soon be cropped out of the picture. The Twins are on target to sign him to a contract extension before Christmas, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, whose report is based on the pace of ongoing talks between Minnesota general manager Bill Smith and Mauer’s agent, Ron Shapiro.

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