Twins' Joe Mauer: Drops in batting order against lefthander

Mauer went 0-for-3 with a walk and an RBI while batting cleanup against a left-handed starter in Monday's win over Kansas City. Manager Paul Molitor has hinted that Mauer could hit as low as seventh against lefties this season, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

Analysis:

Mauer hit fourth for just the eighth time in his career, as he's primarily occupied the third slot in the order. He could be moved down even further in the batting order against lefties and may even be rested frequently against southpaws this season. Mauer had just a .610 OPS against lefties last season, but he was much better against righties (.793).