The Twins are believed to be talking about a four-year contract offer worth about $33 million for catcher Joe Mauer, whose .347 average led the major leagues in hitting last season. The fourth year of the guaranteed deal would bind Mauer, who doesn't turn 24 until April, past his first season of free-agent eligibility. The Twins have offered Mauer $3.3 million in salary arbitration; Mauer has requested $4.5 million. Usually, the Twins and arbitration players agree to a midpoint figure. But this case could be headed for a hearing.