ST. LOUIS — Just got an e-mail about Joe Mauer’s interview tonight on Sirius XM Radio with Seth Everett and Jim Duquette. Reggie Jackson jumped in, unsolicited, and predicted Mauer will win the Home Run Derby.

Jackson said he likes Mauer’s stroke. Pretty cool. A busy writing day here, but I wanted to pass it along, as you settle in for tonight’s festivities.

I’m picking Ryan Howard to win tonight, but I have a hunch Mauer’s going to surprise. I’ve covered two HR Derby winners (Miguel Tejada 2004 and Justin Morneau 2008), so I’m ready for a long night.

You can also follow me on Twitter @JoeCStartribune.

Update: Mauer hit five home runs in the first round. He’ll be eliminated if Albert Pujols hits six or more.

Update: Pujols hit five. Swing off between Carlos Pena, Mauer and Pujols for the final spot. Five swings apiece. If they are still tied, it’ll be three swings apiece.

Update: Mauer has been eliminated after going 0-for-5 in the first-round swing-off. Carlos Pena had one, and Albert Pujols advanced with two, to the delight of the Busch Stadium crowd.

This entry was posted on Monday, July 13th, 2009 at 6:54 pm and is filed under Twins thoughts. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.