Mauer's homer off Pirates left-hander Antonio Bastardo broke a career-long homerless drought of 76 games and 286 at-bats. Mauer said he was looking to drive the pitch the other way, but took advantage of a slider up in the zone and was able to pull it to right-center.
"I was just waiting until we played the 13th to do it," Mauer said with a laugh. "I knew I hit it well. I was just hoping it was high enough with that high wall out there. I'm glad it came in a big spot."
So while the power hasn't been there for Mauer this year, he's come up with several big hits, as evidenced by the fact he's tied for the team lead with 24 RBIs.