"He called this season a "grind" healthwise, refuted claims that he balked at playing hurt and vowed to step up offseason training.

One Twins player looking forward to the offseason is catcher Joe Mauer -- but not because he wants to get away from recent criticism about his ability to play through injuries.

After speaking with the training staff, Mauer is making arrangements to upgrade his offseason conditioning program. The offseason is the best time for players to add strength, and Mauer wants to enter 2012 spring training in the best shape possible.

"The biggest thing is having a regular offseason," Mauer said. "This year has been pretty tough for me, probably the toughest season I've been through, physically. Last year wasn't easy either. I had that heel injury and things kind if trickled down from that.

"It will be nice. Hopefully I'll have somewhat of a normal offseason. I've got things in place. I've learned a lot over the last couple of years. I think I have the right people and program in place to have a good offseason.""