MINNEAPOLIS – Backup catcher Mike Redmond's $950,000 option for next season was exercised Thursday by the Minnesota Twins.

The 37-year-old hit .287 in 38 games this season, with 12 RBIs. He has a .292 career average.

A leader in the clubhouse, Redmond played in 82 games in 2007, 47 in 2006 and 45 in his first year with the team in 2005.

Starter Joe Mauer, who won his second AL batting title in three seasons and was the starter in the All-Star game, stayed healthy this season and had more time behind the plate.

Leg problems kept Mauer out of the lineup for a stretch of games last season.

Minnesota could have bought out the option for $100,000, which would have made Redmond eligible for free agency.