Nearly 40,000 fans packed Target Field Saturday night for the long-awaited Joe Mauer Day, with the six-time All-Star witnessing the Twins raise his No. 7 jersey during a pregame retirement ceremony.
“Wearing the No. 7 the last 15 years has been my absolute pleasure. And being able to play my entire career in that number in front of my family, friends and fans here at home means more to me than any of you will ever know,” said Mauer, fighting back tears before a raucous ovation followed.
Mauer closed his speech by thanking the fans.
“You all know that you played a role in getting it up there. I know when I will see it I will think of all of you and be forever grateful. Thanks again, and go get ’em tonight, boys.”
Here are videos from the ceremony if you missed it.
Letters to Joe: "I am going to miss watching you on the field. I am so thankful you are my buddy. Love, Bennett" ❤ #RESPEC7 pic.twitter.com/MWeeQfNegK
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) June 16, 2019
The man of the hour joined @dbremer_pxp and @BertBlyleven28 in the booth! @Twins great Joe Mauer says he's content with his decision to retire. pic.twitter.com/n2YkH3Wiqv
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) June 16, 2019
"He's a credit to all of us."
Ron Gardenhire, Justin Morneau, Johnny Bench, CC Sabathia, Rod Carew, Terry Ryan, Brian Dozier AND MORE pay tribute to @Twins great Joe Mauer. pic.twitter.com/GjFYNuoIma
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) June 15, 2019
"I can't think of anyone more deserving of this honor."
Who better to take a look back at Joe Mauer's remarkable career than former @Twins teammate Justin Morneau? pic.twitter.com/ijpSt9V10Y
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) June 15, 2019
https://twitter.com/ParkerHageman/status/1140051729922306053
A few of Joe Mauer's friends showed up for today's ceremony.
Recognize these guys, @Twins fans? #RESPEC7 pic.twitter.com/A9ZC58yDNU
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) June 16, 2019
Joe isn't the only @Twins legend at Target Field today. #RESPEC7 pic.twitter.com/92krDBo3Vt
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) June 16, 2019
Just a game of catch with dad. ❤️ #RESPEC7 pic.twitter.com/XmYqmwtDgW
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) June 16, 2019
