Byron Buxton is back in Minnesota’s lineup after a nine-game absence, giving the Twins one of the American League’s most productive power hitters for the season’s final stretch.
The All-Star outfielder was activated from the 10-day injured list before Monday night’s game against the Cleveland Guardians after recovering from a right hip strain.
Buxton had expected to return when the Twins came back from the All-Star break, but he took several additional days to make sure the injury was fully addressed. Minnesota went 5-4 while he was sidelined.
“Those extra couple days didn’t hurt me to make sure I got everything right before we got here and started this big series,” Buxton said. “I think we are all in a good spot as far as going forward and everybody understanding what we got going on. So it’s going to be fun.”
What Buxton Brings Back to the Lineup
| Category | Buxton’s Total | League Context |
|---|---|---|
| Home runs | 25 | Fourth in the American League, sixth in MLB |
| Leadoff home runs | 6 | Team-leading lineup impact |
| Batting average | .271 | — |
| RBIs / stolen bases | 45 / 7 | — |
The 32-year-old was selected as a starting outfielder for last week’s All-Star Game, though the hip injury prevented him from taking part. His return restores a major source of power and speed to the Minnesota Twins.
Manager Derek Shelton said the club preferred a cautious approach rather than rushing Buxton back for the first games after the break. He said the decision was shaped by the long run still ahead.
“We don’t want to rush him back because with 62 games left or 60 games left or whatever we have, it’s an extended run,” Shelton said, according to ESPN. “So if we lose a game or two on the front side to gain it on the back side, then I’m all for that.”
To clear a roster spot for Byron Buxton, the Twins optioned infielder Tristan Gray to Triple-A St. Paul. Buxton’s first game back came in a key series against the Cleveland Guardians.
