Joe Mauer can become a free agent after the 2009 season, meaning the Twins would want to sign him for at least four years. That deal would be expected to average nearly $10 million a season. If Mauer, eligible for salary arbitration after being paid $400,000 this year, opts for a one-year contract, he could earn $4 million next season. "I'm just going to keep working hard, and that will all work out," he said.