Mauer grateful for All-Star experience

MINNEAPOLIS -- The All-Star break was a nice refresher for most of the Twins, but not for catcher Joe Mauer or closer Glen Perkins, who represented the club in the Midsummer Classic at Citi Field.

But Mauer, who went 1-for-2 and caught six scoreless innings in the American League's 3-0 win, said the experience was worth it, especially spending it with Perkins for the first time. Perkins didn't get into the game but warmed up three times.

"I was hoping he would've got an inning there or a batter, but for him just to experience it, I know he had a great time," Mauer said. "I had yesterday [off], which was pretty nice. So it was a nice little break there. Like I said, any time you get a chance to go to the All-Star Game, it's definitely worth going."

Mauer added that he is willing to be an ambassador for the Twins next year with Target Field set to host the Midsummer Classic, but said he has to be named an All-Star first.

"Being in those games, I know that it's never promised and never guaranteed," Mauer said. "To be a part of any one is special, and I hope I can have a chance next year. That'd be great. I'd gladly do whatever they want me to do. I got to chat with David Wright there and saw him at the brunch at the game, and Tuesday morning he was exhausted. He said it was a lot of fun."