[IBL] Mauer brings his IBL career to a close in the most dramatic fashion

[Andrew Selder]

After begin a key cog in  WMS’s magical run to an IBL champion in 
2018, fan favorite Joe Mauer had announced that 2019 would be his final 
season before retiring for a life of relaxation.

As WMS comes down the to wire in the playoff race in 2019, every game 
matters. In game 80 at WMS Stadium, WMS was facing OXY in a must win 
battle. In game 1, of the series, JT Realmuto ended the night with a 
walk-off double in bottom of the ninth to cap a 2-run 9th to give WMS 
the 3-2 victory.

Game 2 was just as exciting as WMS scored 3 in the 8th to take a 6-5 
lead. Edwin Diaz, the IBL saves leader, came out to lock down the win, 
but a 2 out error by Mauer opened the door for Howie Kendrick to double 
home Marisnick to tie the game. The game went to the bottom of the 10th 
still tied, and Melky Cabrera single to lead things off. Mauer then hit 
into a fielders choice. Starlin Castro strode to the plate and lined a 
double to left center. Mauer trying to atone for his error, came 
charging around 3rd barreling to the plate. The throw from Marisnick 
came in, and arrived at the same moment as Mauer. Mauer and Vazquez both 
went flying in massive collision and the ball rolled out of Vazquez’s 
glove, to end the game as Mauer got a piece of the plate.

The celebration as muted a both player required major medical attention. 
Both players had to be carted off the field.

But it was a legendary ending to the season and career for Joe Mauer, 
sacrificing his body to squeeze out one last WMS win.