Sox have eyes for Joe Mauer

The Sox may end up thanking their stars that they didn't pull the trigger on a trade for one of the Texas Triangle catchers because Joe Mauer could be donning red socks as soon as this July.

Mauer, an impending free agent after 2010, will command a contract with a salary range between $20-$25 million, reported Nick Cafardo yesterday.

Slated to turn 26 on April 19, Mauer would be one of the most sought after players should he land in the free agent market with both the Red Sox, New York Yankees and other teams bidding for his services.