Our source, who is close to the situation, tells us that the Twins have been deliberately vague regarding Joe Mauer's health not out of an interest to protect his privacy but instead to protect ticket sales. The team's official announcement that Mauer had" bilateral leg weakness" certainly raised eyebrows, causing many to wonder what was really going on.

Sunday's article in the Star Tribune didn't exactly clear things up. The All Star catcher, clearly miffed at perceptions that he should be playing or isn't really injured, seemed defensive in an interview with Jim Souhan. He confided that bilateral leg weakness was probably a poor choice of words by the Twins, and expressed frustration at his inability to play. Ever the consummate professional, Mauer left it at that, but it seems to us that he would rather clear the air about what is a legitimate health concern. Instead, it appears he is being muzzled by team executives who fear fans will stop coming to Target Field if they learn Mauer's health status.

What we've been told is that Mauer suffers from a legitimate ailment and needs plenty of time to rehab. There was (and may still be) concern that he will miss the rest of the season. It's just unfortunate that the Twins have seemingly elected not to be forthright about the situation, leading to mounting frustration on the part of Mauer and Twins fans.

Although we didn't plan it this way, perhaps it's fitting that we are re-launching CaseJack on the day the Minnesota Twins say goodbye to one of the most loved local sports heroes, Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew.

In an era when flash and fanfare supersede substance, Killebrew ended his life the way he lived it, graciously. He was as renowned as much for his kindness and generosity as his prodigious displays of power. Harmon Killebrew was a great power hitter when home runs were scarce, and an even greater man in a time when great men also seem to be in short supply. He will be missed by us all.

Farewell, Harmon Killebrew.