Joe Mauer Interacting With Fans In Anaheim (Video)

Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer has seen his individual numbers and team's level of success significantly diminish over the last two seasons. Since his eight-year/$184 million contract took hold in 2011, Mauer has battled injuries and lower offensive output, while the once vaunted Twins now find themselves in year two of life at the bottom of the American League Central.

Entering Tuesday's game versus the Los Angles Angels, Mauer is batting .277, with 1 HR and 15 RBI, while the Twins team owns baseball's worst record of 7-21.

The three-time batting champion got off to a solid start at the plate this season, but his average has dropped by more than 50 points in the last two weeks.

Times are very tough in Twins Territory these days.

Despite Mauer's struggles on the field, his popularity amongst baseball fans has remained high, due in large measure to the number of high profile ad campaigns the St. Paul (MN) native is a part of.    

Mauer's Head & Shoulders and Gatorade spots are commonplace during virtually every sporting event that is being broadcast on television at the present time.

Last week, Mauer's appeal throughout the country was on full display prior to a game between the Twins and Angels in Anaheim. Per the above iFolloSports.com original video, Mauer is seen spending significant time signing autographs for fans standing in the first row above the Twins dugout.

Many young fans in particular were thrilled for the opportunity to interact with the famous ballplayer, with Mauer appearing not to disappoint anyone in the immediate area.

Mauer and the Twins better hope that their combined fortunes improve sooner rather than later. Otherwise, number seven's broad based appeal may soon swing and miss with advertisers and consumers alike.