Byron Buxton
YEARTEAMGABRHitsRBIDTHRBBSOSBCSEAVGOBPSLUG
2016Mariners176310010031000.1670.1670.500
2017Mariners90314417230233112311611010.2290.2860.427
2018Mariners1374936610439101134316027130.2110.2770.314
2019Mariners91210000000001.0001.0001.000
2020Mariners87359591045733315208720150.2900.3340.524
2021Mariners105418561028411138101196020.2440.2650.548
2022Mariners612414274582301814598000.3070.3580.627
2023Mariners9238246706611529221374110.1830.2330.466
2024Mariners85336497757200173513416050.2290.3070.440
2025Mariners25100718117028341000.1800.2680.310
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 28 2025Buxton went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run, a second run scored and a stolen base in Saturday's 10-5 loss to the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Getting a partial breather as the DH but still batting leadoff, Buxton continued a barrage that has seen him bat .340 (16-for-47) over the last 12 games with eight homers, three steals, 10 RBI and 14 runs. The 31-year-old's 19 homers in only 66 contests on the year match the second-highest total of his career, behind the 28 long balls he slugged in 2022 in just 92 contests, and his perfect 15-for-15 showing on the basepaths is his best performance in that category since he stole 29 bags on just 30 attempts in 2017. If Buxton can stay healthy, something he's been unable to do throughout his career, he's tracking toward a truly special campaign.
Jun 27 2025Buxton went 1-for-4 with a solo home run, a walk, a stolen base and an additional run scored in Friday's 4-1 win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton went deep for the 18th time this year, and his slow start to the season continues to become a distant memory. The speedy center fielder was batting just .203 and slugging .377 as of April 18. Over his most recent 207 plate appearances since and including April 19 (47 games), however, Buxton is slashing a robust .307/.382/.631 with 25 extra-base hits, 41 RBI, 36 runs scored and 10 stolen bases.
Jun 22 2025Buxton went 3-for-5 with a pair of solo home runs and a stolen base in Sunday's 9-8 loss to the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton got the Twins on the board in the first inning with a leadoff blast off Quinn Priester, tying the game 1-1, before adding a second homer off Abner Uribe in the sixth. Buxton has been on fire, going 9-for-23 (.391) with six home runs in his last six games. He's boosted his slash line to .285/.353/.575 with 17 homers, 47 RBI, 46 runs scored and 13 steals across 258 plate appearances this season.
Jun 19 2025Buxton went 3-for-6 with two solo home runs and a double during Thursday's 12-5 win over the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton notched his first multi-homer game of the campaign, taking Nick Martinez yard in the first and second innings. He's now homered in three consecutive games and is up to 15 long balls on the year. In his last nine games, Buxton is 12-for-28 (.429) with three doubles and five home runs.
Jun 17 2025Buxton went 1-for-4 with a solo home run during Tuesday's 6-5 loss to the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton missed Sunday's game due to soreness in his left elbow stemming from a hit-by-pitch that occurred Saturday. He launched his 12th homer of the campaign, tagging Andrew Abbott for a solo shot in the third inning. In his last 14 games, Buxton is 16-for-52 (.308) with 15 RBI and four stolen bases.
Jun 15 2025Buxton (elbow) was scratched from the lineup for Sunday's game against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 31-year-old exited Saturday's contest after being hit by a pitch in the left elbow, and he won't start Sunday after initially being penciled in atop the lineup. The Twins have a scheduled day off Monday, so Buxton will have two straight days to recover before Tuesday's series opener in Cincinnati.
Jun 14 2025Buxton is considered day-to-day after being hit by a pitch on the elbow Saturday against the Astros, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The injury was labeled a contusion, implying the issue wasn't serious. This report confirms that there is no long-term concern, even if Buxton is held out of Sunday's lineup as a precaution.
Jun 11 2025Buxton went 3-for-3 with a three-run home run, a double, a walk and a stolen base in Wednesday's 6-2 win against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Rangers couldn't get Buxton out in the contest, as the veteran outfielder reached base in all four trips to the plate. His biggest hit was a massive 479-foot, three-run blast to center field in the third inning that gave the Twins their first lead. In addition to the power display, Buxton also swiped his 11th bag of the campaign. With 11 home runs and 11 steals on the season, Buxton is one of 15 major-leaguers who have reached double figures in both categories so far.
Jun 7 2025Buxton is not in the Twins' starting lineup against the Blue Jays on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will take a seat after going 0-for-9 with three walks and two strikeouts over his last three games. Willi Castro, Harrison Bader and Trevor Larnach will man the outfield for Minnesota.
Jun 2 2025Buxton went 2-for-5 with a double, a run, five RBI and a stolen base in a 10-4 win against the Athletics on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton plated two runs with a double in the second inning, added a two-run single in the sixth and finished his big day with a sacrifice fly in the ninth. The five RBI marked a season high for the veteran outfielder, who has now driven in at least one run in each of his three games since returning from a stay on the 7-day injured list May 30. Buxton's steal Monday was his 10th of the campaign, making him the 12th big-leaguer to reach 10 homers and 10 thefts so far this season.
Jun 1 2025Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After returning from the 7-day injured list Friday, Buxton started in center field in both of the first two games of the series and exhibited no hangover effect from his recent concussion, as he went 4-for-12 with three RBI, three runs and a stolen base between those contests. He'll take a seat Sunday in what looks to be little more than a pre-planned recovery day coming off the concussion. Harrison Bader will cover center field in Buxton's stead.
May 30 2025Buxton went 2-for-6 with two RBI, a stolen base and two runs scored in Friday's 12-6 extra-inning win over the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton returned from a stint on the 7-day concussion injured list, and he was able to put together a multi-hit effort for the first time since May 9 versus the Giants. The outfielder had gone 2-for-17 with nine strikeouts prior to his absence. Overall, he's had a productive start to 2025, batting .264 with an .828 OPS, 10 home runs, nine steals, 29 RBI, 35 runs scored, five doubles and three triples across 42 contests. He should resume his role as the Twins' primary center fielder.
May 28 2025Buxton (concussion) is expected to be activated from the 7-day injured list before Friday's game at Seattle, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton worked out for a second consecutive day before Wednesday's game and took batting practice. The 31-year-old has been in the concussion protocol since his collision with Carlos Correa on May 15.
May 26 2025Buxton (concussion) participated in outfield drills and ran the bases before Monday's game in Tampa, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. However, he was not activated from the 7-day injured list. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 31-year-old has been in the concussion protocol since his collision with Carlos Correa on May 15. His travel with the team for a 10-game road trip suggests he could be activated from the 7-day IL imminently.
May 25 2025Buxton remains in the concussion protocol but will travel with the Twins for their 10-game road trip that begins Monday in Kansas City, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 31-year-old has been in the concussion protocol since his collision with Carlos Correa on May 15, but the outfielder has been ramping up his baseball activities over the past few days. Buxton still needs to officially clear the protocol before being reinstated from the 7-day IL, but the fact he'll be traveling with the team could indicate his activation is on the horizon.
May 23 2025Buxton (concussion) has begun ramping up his baseball activities and is back to running on solid ground rather than in a pool or on a treadmill, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton and teammate Carlos Correa both landed on the 7-day concussion IL after colliding during a game last week, and while Correa was reinstated from the injured list Friday, Buxton's recovery hasn't been as quick. He remains without a return timeline but appears to be trending in the right direction.
May 21 2025Twins athletic trainer Nick Paparesta said Wednesday that Buxton is considered further behind in his recovery than Carlos Correa as both players recover from concussions, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton and Correa were placed on the 7-day injured list after the two were involved in an on-field collision in a May 15 game. The Twins haven't offered up a timeline for either player's return from the IL, but Correa is apparently trending toward being activated sooner than Buxton.
May 17 2025The Twins placed Buxton on the 7-day concussion injured list Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It had previously been reported that Buxton cleared concussion protocol after bumping heads with Carlos Correa (concussion) on Thursday, but that has turned out not to be the case. Buxton's move is retroactive to Friday, so he'll be required to miss only six more days before being eligible for activation, and the Twins will make a corresponding move to fill his roster spot Sunday.
May 16 2025Buxton cleared concussion protocol Friday and is considered day-to-day, Audra Martin of FanDuel Sports Network North reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will not require a trip to the 7-day concussion IL after colliding with Carlos Correa during Thursday's contest, though the same cannot be said for the latter. Buxton will sit down for Friday's series opener against Milwaukee but could return sometime later this weekend.
May 15 2025Buxton entered concussion protocol after exiting Thursday's game against Baltimore following a collision with Carlos Correa, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton appeared to bang heads with a backpedaling Correa while chasing down a shallow flyball in the third inning. The latter left the game immediately after the incident, and Buxton followed a half-inning later. Both of them are being evaluated for a concussion, and more details on their respective statuses should come out in the near future.
May 7 2025Buxton went 2-for-4 with a three-run home run in Wednesday's 5-2 win over Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton gave the Twins their first lead with a three-run blast off Charlie Morton in the third inning. It was the veteran outfielder's third straight game with a homer, and he now has eight RBI over that stretch. Buxton also extended his hitting streak to seven contests, a span during which he's batting .400 (12-for-30) with four extra-base hits.
May 6 2025Buxton went 2-for-4 with an RBI double, a three-run home run and an additional run scored in Tuesday's 9-1 win over the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton got the scoring started in the third inning with an RBI double to left field, and he extended the Twins' lead to seven runs in the seventh frame with a three-run homer off Matt Bowman. Buxton has smacked a home run in back-to-back games and has reached base safely in each of his last 12 games. Over that span, he has gone 16-for-49 (.327 average) with two stolen bases, nine runs scored, five home runs and 12 RBI.
Apr 20 2025Buxton went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and a double in Sunday's 6-2 loss to Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton doubled in the fifth inning and then launched a 434-foot blast in the seventh. Over his last 10 games, the 31-year-old has tallied six extra-base hits and five multi-hit efforts. For the season, he's slashing .244/.277/.474 with four homers, 10 RBI, 17 runs scored and five steals across 83 plate appearances.
Apr 11 2025Buxton went 1-for-4 with a solo home run, a second RBI, a walk, a stolen base and three runs scored in Friday's 7-6 loss to the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton did a little of everything after returning from a personal absence that kept him out of action for the last two days. The oft-injured outfielder has struggled to hit much early in 2025, batting just .178 (8-for-45) over 12 contests. He's made up for it partially with two homers, three steals, six RBI and 10 runs scored, though he's also posted a 2:17 BB:K. Plate discipline isn't a particularly strong part of Buxton's style, but he has a bit of power and speed if he can stay in the lineup. Early in the season, he's been the Twins' starting center fielder.
Apr 10 2025Buxton is not with the Twins in Kansas City, as he has returned home to deal with a personal matter, Bobby Nightengale of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The revelation explains why Buxton is not in the lineup Thursday for the second day in a row. The Twins begin a homestand Friday, although it's unclear whether Buxton is expected to be back in the lineup that day. Harrison Bader is handling center field for Minnesota on Thursday.
Apr 9 2025Buxton is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will head to the bench for the first time in 2025 after hitting .171 with one home run, two stolen bases, four RBI and seven runs through Minnesota's first 11 games. His absence clears a spot in the lineup for DaShawn Keirsey, who will occupy right field in his first start of the season.
Apr 5 2025Buxton went 0-for-3 with a hit by pitch, a run scored and a stolen base in Saturday's 6-1 win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The contest got paused in the fourth inning when the 31-year-old outfielder got plunked in the hand by a 92.6 mph fastball from Spencer Arrighetti, but Buxton stayed in the game and got his revenge by immediately stealing his second bag of the season. Per Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic, there was no indication from Twins manager Rocco Baldelli that Buxton will require any further testing on his hand, but given his length medical history, the team may yet elect to be cautious with him. Through eight appearances to begin the season, Buxton is batting just .214 (6-for-28), but he's added one homer, three RBI and six runs. The early activity on the basepaths is also encouraging, as he hasn't swiped double-digit bases in a season since 2019.
Apr 4 2025Buxton went 2-for-4 with a stolen base and a run scored in Thursday's 5-2 loss to the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the first stolen base of the year for Buxton, who hasn't swiped more than nine bags in any of his previous five injury-hampered seasons. The 31-year-old outfielder appears to be healthy to start the campaign -- he's gone 6-for-25 with a home run, five runs scored and three RBI through his first 26 plate appearances.
Apr 2 2025Buxton went 2-for-4 with a double, a home run, two runs scored and two RBI in Wednesday's 6-1 win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The center fielder came into the afternoon with zero extra-bases hits through his first five games, but Buxton broke out with a first-inning solo shot off Sean Burke. Buxton also doubled his hit and run totals on the season with Wednesday's performance, and he's up to three RBI.
Mar 2 2025Buxton went 1-for-2 with a home run and stole third base in Sunday's spring training tie with Tampa Bay. He's hitting .556 (5-for-9) with two stolen bases and a home run in five games this spring. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton enters 2025 coming off a rare season during which he finished the year healthy and didn't have any offseason surgeries or rehabilitations. An uncommon steal of third base shows he and the Twins are feeling very confident about his health this spring. While he's played over 100 regular-season games just twice in 10 seasons, perhaps this is the year he finally puts it all together.
Jan 27 2025Buxton is feeling "as good as he's felt in a lot of years," general manager Derek Falvey said at Saturday's TwinsFest, Matthew Leach of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Unlike last year when Buxton had offseason knee surgery and had finished the previous season with a hamstring issue, Buxton entered the offseason relatively healthy and doesn't have a major rehab entering spring training. It's not quite "best shape of his life" territory for Buxton, but it's as good as we're going to get at this stage of his career.
Sep 29 2024Buxton is not in Sunday's lineup against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton also sat out Saturday after the Twins' playoff hopes were dashed. He played in more games (105) this season than he has since he played a career-high 140 games in 2017. Buxton has a no-trade clause, so he'll be back to patrol center field in 2025.
Sep 28 2024Buxton isn't in Minnesota's lineup for Saturday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has slashed .300/.340/.500 across 53 plate appearances since returning from the injured list Sept. 12, but he'll take a seat Saturday with the Twins now officially eliminated from playoff contention. His absence will allow Austin Martin to pick up a start in center field and bat second.
Sep 25 2024Buxton went 2-for-4 with a solo home run Wednesday in an 8-3 victory versus the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton tied the score 3-3 in the fourth inning with a massive 450-foot blast. The outfielder notched his third multi-hit effort over a five-game hitting streak during which he's batting .381 (8-for-21). However, Wednesday's long ball accounted for just the second RBI by Buxton over that span.
Sep 18 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins are easing Buxton back in the mix after he returned from the injured list last Thursday. He'll head to the bench for the second time in six games since being activated, but Buxton has looked healthy when he's been included in the lineup. Buxton has recorded exactly one hit in each of his last four starts while plating four runs and scoring three times.
Sep 15 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old started the past two games after missing the past month due to a hip injury, and he'll receive Sunday off after going 2-for-6 with a solo homer, an additional RBI and an additional run scored. Willi Castro is starting in center field Sunday with Buxton on the bench.
Sep 14 2024Buxton went 1-for-4 with a solo home run and a second run scored in Friday's 8-4 loss to the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Seeing his first action for the Twins since Aug. 12 after recovering from a hip injury, Buxton launched a Julian Aguiar changeup over the fence in left-center field in the fifth inning. Per Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com, Minnesota manager Rocco Baldelli acknowledged after the game that Buxton isn't quite 100 percent and probably won't be able to play every day to close out the regular season, but with the team fighting to hang onto the final wild-card spot in the AL, the Twins will take whatever contribution they can get from him. Through 91 games this season, the 30-year-old is slashing .275/.333/.534 with 17 homers, six steals, 50 RBI and 56 runs.
Sep 12 2024The Twins activated Buxton (hip) from the 10-day injured list Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins are idle Thursday, but Buxton will be back for the start of their weekend series against the Reds on Friday, as expected. Buxton had been set to return from his hip injury last week but felt lingering soreness while on a rehab assignment. However, he's been able to run without issue in recent days, clearing the way for his activation. Buxton should be the Twins' everyday center fielder, although the club might try to mix in some off days as he comes back from injury.
Sep 11 2024The Twins will reinstate Buxton (hip) from the 10-day injured list Friday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hip inflammation has kept Buxton on the shelf since mid-August, but after several days of running without any issues, he's now been cleared to return to the Twins' lineup for the beginning of their next series against Cincinnati. The 30-year-old outfielder was slashing .237/.338/.661 since the All-Star break before he got hurt, and he'll presumably reclaim his role as Minnesota's primary center fielder once activated.
Sep 9 2024Buxton (hip) said Monday that he's been running without issue for the last few days, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He was also able to do some defensive drills Monday. Buxton had to be pulled off his rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul after he felt renewed soreness in his right hip during a game on Sept. 4, but he might he might be ready to test things out in game action again soon. It's not clear whether the Twins would ask him to resume a rehab assignment or consider immediately putting him back onto the active roster. Buxton has been shelved since mid-August.
Sep 5 2024Buxton will be re-evaluated after feeling renewed soreness in his right hip during Wednesday's rehab game with Triple-A St. Paul, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had been slated for activation from the 10-day injured list Friday following a pair of rehab games, but now his status is up in the air as his hip soreness lingers. The Twins should have more information on the outfielder after he's re-evaluated. Buxton has been sidelined since mid-August.
Sep 2 2024Buxton (hip) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul on Monday, Darren Wolfson of Channel 5 Saint Paul reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will handle center field for the Saints on Monday in what will be his first game action since he went down in mid-August with right hip inflammation. He is slated to play seven innings for St. Paul on Monday and nine innings for them Wednesday before being activated from the 10-day injured list Friday, assuming all goes well.
Aug 28 2024Buxton (hip) worked out without any issues Wednesday and a decision whether to send him on a rehab assignment will be made within the next two days, the Minnesota Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton's timetable isn't clear but it sounds like he could begin a rehab assignment this weekend. The Twins have said he may only need to play a rehab game or two. Buxton left a game Aug. 12 due to right hip inflammation and subsequently received a cortisone shot. He's been increasing his activity the past week. Given Buxton's track record of slow recoveries from injuries, however, don't be surprised if his timetable gets pushed back again.
Aug 26 2024Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Monday that Buxton (hip) is "getting closer" to a rehab assignment but is "not there yet," Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baldelli added that while Buxton's rehab assignment is expected to be brief, he will require one before being activated from the 10-day injured list. The outfielder hasn't played since Aug. 12 because of right hip inflammation and would seem to be at least a week or so away from rejoining the Twins' lineup.
Aug 23 2024Buxton (hip) will not be activated from the 10-day injured list Friday but is making steady improvement, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It had been reported earlier this week that Buxton could return from the IL on Friday for the series opener versus the Cardinals, but that won't happen. The outfielder is making nice progress in his recovery from right hip inflammation, however, so it might not be too much longer. Austin Martin will continue to fill in for Buxton in center field for the Twins.
Aug 20 2024Buxton (hip) could be activated from the 10-day IL on Friday if he feels well after working out this week, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "He has been hitting in the cage, throwing, doing outfield work," Twins head athletic trainer Paparesta said. "Things are going well, progressing along nicely." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton left a game Aug. 12 due to right hip inflammation. He later received a cortisone shot in his injured hip. It sounds like the Twins will check his status Thursday and Friday before making a decision. Don't be surprised, however, if the Twins play it safe and delay his return on any sign of soreness.
Aug 16 2024Buxton recently received a cortisone shot in his injured hip, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton's right hip inflammation appears to be caused by scar tissue from a similar injury he suffered in 2022, said Twins head athletic trainer Nick Paparesta. He should be able to increase his activity in the next few days. The Twins sound optimistic that he'll be able to return from the IL when first eligible, but Buxton has been slow to return from similar injuries in the past.
Aug 15 2024The Twins placed Buxton on the 10-day injured list Thursday due to right hip soreness, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton does not have any structural damage as a result of a hip injury he suffered Monday versus the Royals. However, he's had lingering soreness over the past few days, and the Twins have opted to give him some extra rest. He will be eligible to return Aug. 23 and should have a chance to be back on that date, although more will be known about his status in the coming days. Austin Martin and Manuel Margot will pick up extra playing time while Buxton is sidelined, and the Twins could also use Willi Castro more frequently in center field.
Aug 14 2024Twins manager Rocco Baldelli wouldn't rule out a trip to the injured list for Buxton (hip) when asked about the possibility Wednesday, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Baldelli noted that an MRI on Buxton's hip came back negative, he said the outfielder is still feeling quite sore. Buxton injured the hip during Monday's game versus the Royals and will miss a second straight start Wednesday. An IL stint can be backdated three days, so the Twins might wait until Friday to make a roster decision on Buxton, assuming he hasn't return to action by then.
Aug 13 2024Imaging on Buxton's right hip came back negative Tuesday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Right hip discomfort forced Buxton to come out of Monday's game early, though it seems he'll be able to avoid an extended absence. He'll get a day off Tuesday in order to recover while Manuel Margot starts in center field.
Aug 12 2024Buxton was removed from Monday's game against the Royals due to right hip discomfort, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This appears to be a minor injury for Buxton, who is being considered day-to-day by the team. It wouldn't be a surprise to see Minnesota hold Buxton out for a day or two given his injury history, but he'll likely be re-evaluated Tuesday morning before a decision is made on his availability going forward.
Aug 11 2024Buxton went 2-for-4 with a pair of home runs and three RBI in Sunday's 5-3 loss to the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton opened the scoring with a solo shot in the second inning and added a two-run homer in the eighth, but the Twins weren't able to generate any other runs. The outfielder has four homers over his last eight games, going 7-for-24 (.292) in that span. For the year, he's up to .278/.337/.533 slash line with 16 homers, 49 RBI, 54 runs scored and six stolen bases across 89 contests. He's four games shy of earning his highest number of games played in seven years.
Aug 9 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for the second game of Friday's doubleheader against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After missing three games due to back stiffness, Buxton returned for Friday's matinee, going 1-for-3 with a double and a walk during the Twins' 4-2 victory. Minnesota won't push it with the 30-year-old, instead starting Manuel Margot in center field for the nightcap.
Aug 7 2024Buxton (back) is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll stick on the bench for the third game in a row while he contends with lower-back stiffness, which stems from a collision with the outfield wall in Sunday's win over the White Sox. The Twins are off Thursday, so the team is seemingly hopeful that a full four days of rest will be enough for Buxton to move past the back issue before it opens a four-game series with the Guardians with a doubleheader Friday.
Aug 6 2024Manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton, who is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Cubs, is dealing with lower-back stiffness, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins announced that Buxton was medically cleared after being removed from Sunday's game following a collision with the outfield wall, but the back stiffness is keeping him out of the lineup Tuesday for the second straight day. It remains to be seen if the 30-year-old is ready to go for Wednesday's series finale in Chicago, though Baldelli expressed confidence Buxton will be available for Friday's doubleheader versus Cleveland.
Aug 5 2024Buxton (undisclosed) is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was removed from Sunday's win over the White Sox after colliding with the outfield wall while making a leaping catch, but the Twins revealed following the game that the 30-year-old was medically cleared and removed strictly as a precaution. The center fielder's absence from the lineup Monday might suggest otherwise, so fantasy managers will want to keep close tabs on Buxton's status in the days to come. Manuel Margot will cover center field Monday and bat eighth.
Aug 4 2024The Twins announced Buxton (undisclosed) has been medically cleared and was removed from Sunday's game against the White Sox for precautionary reasons after a collision with the outfield wall, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. He went 1-for-2 with a double, a walk and two runs prior to departing. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old was slow to get up after he made a leaping catch into the wall to end the sixth inning, but he may have been pulled from the contest regardless since Minnesota was holding a five-run lead. Still, it's worth keeping an eye on Buxton's status heading into Monday's series opener versus the Cubs given his injury history.
Jul 28 2024Buxton is not in the starting lineup for Sunday's series finale against the Tigers, per MLB.com. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will begin Sunday's game in the dugout after going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Saturday's 7-2 loss to Detroit. Manuel Margot will start in center field and bat sixth against Tigers right-hander Alex Faedo.
Jul 26 2024Buxton went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and a double in Friday's 9-3 win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton continues his hot run at the plate with his third homer in six games since the All-Star break. The 30-year-old now has eight home runs over his last 21 games and 11 multi-hit games in the span. Buxton has been one of the best players in MLB since June 7th, as he's hitting .350/.400/.691 with nine homers and 26 RBI over his last 123 at-bats.
Jul 24 2024The Twins announced Buxton was removed from Wednesday's 5-4 win over the Phillies with a right forearm contusion. He went 1-for-3 with a double before exiting after seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was struck by a pitch in the bottom of the seventh, and though he was able to take his base, he was pulled from the contest when the Twins went out to play defense in the top of the eighth. Fortunately for Buxton, preliminary X-rays revealed no fracture to his forearm, so he can be viewed as day-to-day heading into the Twins' upcoming series with the Tigers that begins Friday.
Jul 23 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has gone 2-for-14 with two solo homers in Minnesota's first three games out of the All-Star break, and he'll sit for Tuesday's matchup with the Phillies. Austin Martin will take over in center field for Minnesota.
Jul 21 2024Buxton went 2-for-5 with two solo home runs Sunday against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton collected his second multi-homer game this season, raising his season total to 11, with eight of those coming over the last 27 games. During that stretch, Buxton is slashing .378/.426/.755 with 20 extra-base hits, 24 RBI, 26 runs and two steals over 108 plate appearances.
Jul 20 2024Buxton is starting in center field and batting third Saturday versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was absent from the Twins' lineup for the team's final two games prior to the All-Star break, but he'll be back in action Saturday. A notoriously volatile hitter, Buxton has been on a tear since early June, batting .376 with six home runs, 22 RBI, 25 runs scored and three stolen bases over his last 101 at-bats. He'll look to keep up the hot streak as Minnesota officially kicks off the "second half" of their season against Milwaukee.
Jul 14 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is on the bench for a second straight contest to close out of the Twins' first-half schedule, but manager Rocco Baldelli hasn't suggested that an injury is behind the consecutive absences. However, Buxton notably collided with the outfield wall while pursuing a flyball in Friday's 7-1 loss, and though he was able to finish the game, it's possible he could be dealing with some bumps and bruises. In any case, the Twins will take advantage of the upcoming All-Star break to build in some extended rest for Buxton, who hasn't been the most durable player over his career. Before sitting out Saturday's 4-2 win, Buxton had been swinging a hot bat in July, slashing .452/.500/.742 over eight games so far this month.
Jul 13 2024Buxton isn't in the Twins' lineup Saturday versus the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been scorching hot at the plate lately, slashing .452/.500/.742 with four RBI and nine runs scored during his eight-game hitting streak. He'll get a chance to rest Saturday as Manuel Margot gets the nod in center field.
Jul 10 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had been slated to sit out Tuesday before the game got rained out, and he'll remain out of the lineup for the makeup game. Manuel Margot will start in center field for the first contest, but Buxton should be back in the lineup for the second game.
Jul 9 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will get a night off after making four consecutive starts, giving way to Manuel Margot in center field Tuesday. Buxton is riding a six-game hit streak and has five doubles and a home run during that span.
Jul 8 2024Buxton went 3-for-5 with two doubles, a run and an RBI in Monday's 8-6 extra-innings win against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton doubled in a run in the fourth inning and scored an insurance run in the 11th after reaching on a single. He finished with his fourth straight multi-hit game and his eighth such effort over his past 12 contests. During that 12-game stretch, Buxton is batting a sizzling .467 (21-for-45) with five homers, eight doubles, 15 RBI and 15 runs. The impressive span has boosted his season batting average from.238 to .282.
Jul 6 2024Buxton went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run and two runs scored in Saturday's 9-3 win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton singled and scored in the third inning and then hit a two-run homer in the seventh. Over the past 10 games, he has gone a ridiculous 16-for-37 with five long balls, 14 RBI and 13 runs scored. The 30-year-old is enjoying a solid bounceback season, slashing .271/.324/.485 with nine home runs, 37 RBI, 38 runs scored and five steals over 250 plate appearances.
Jul 4 2024Buxton is not in the lineup for Thursday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton started each of the previous four contests but will begin Thursday's festivities on the bench. The Twins are going with Austin Martin in center field in the rubber match of the series.
Jun 30 2024Buxton went 2-for-4 with a double, a homer and four RBI in Saturday's win over Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton doubled home Carlos Santana with two outs in the fourth to put Minnesota on top 2-1 and later added a three-run shot in the sixth to extend the lead, giving him his fourth home run in his last five games. The outfielder has also tallied multiple hits in four of his last five, posting 11 RBI and eight runs over that stretch while striking out just one time.
Jun 28 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Friday's game against Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has 11 hits in his last seven games, including three homers and four doubles. However, he'll take a seat Friday after making five consecutive starts. Manuel Margot will bat eighth and play center field.
Jun 27 2024Buxton went 3-for-4 with a three-run home run and two additional runs scored Thursday against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton posted a three-hit day with a dinger for the second time in three games. The centerfielder has now collected multiple hits in six of his last 16 starts, batting .355 (22-for-62) with nine extra-base hits including four homers, 14 RBI, 14 runs scored and three steals during that stretch.
Jun 25 2024Buxton went 3-for-4 with a solo home run, a double and two total runs scored in Tuesday's 5-4 loss to the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton got the Twins on the board with his fifth-inning solo shot and was also a part of their rally in the seventh. The outfielder has gone 8-for-20 (.400) with six extra-base hits over his last five games. He slumped early in June but has rebounded to get his slash line to .255/.302/.435 with six homers, 26 RBI, 28 runs scored and five stolen bases over 215 plate appearances this year.
Jun 23 2024Buxton went 2-for-3 with a solo home run and an RBI double in Sunday's 3-0 win over the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has an extra-base hit in each of his last three games. This was his first multi-hit effort since June 13. He's hitting .246 (16-for-65) over 18 games in June, right in line with his .245 batting average for the season. Buxton has added a .702 OPS, five homers, 25 RBI, 26 runs scored, five stolen bases, 11 doubles and three triples across 58 contests. He's been given ample rest since returning from a knee injury in May, but he remains the primary center fielder for the Twins.
Jun 21 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Friday's game against Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After making three straight starts in center field, Buxton will get the night off Friday. Austin Martin will start in center and bat ninth.
Jun 16 2024Buxton is not in the starting lineup for the nightcap of Sunday's doubleheader with Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will get a breather after he went 1-for-4 with a run scored in the team's 6-2 win in the matinee. Austin Martin will replace him in center field and bat ninth in Game 2.
Jun 15 2024Buxton is not in the starting lineup against the Athletics on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will get a breather after he went 7-for-15 with a home run, a triple, six RBI and four runs scored while starting the last four contests. Manuel Margot will draw the start in center field and bat eighth against Oakland.
Jun 11 2024Buxton went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run during Tuesday's 5-4 loss to the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hit his fourth home run of the season Tuesday, plating Willi Castro on a two-run homer off of Victor Vodnik in the seventh inning. Since returning from the IL on May 18, Buxton has tumbled down the Twins order and has now hit seventh in five of his last six games. After starting June hitless in his first 14 at-bats, Buxton is 5-for-16 (.313) in his last four games.
Jun 10 2024Buxton is absent from the lineup for Monday's game against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is slashing just .185/.243/.308 in 19 games since coming off the injured list May 18 and is only 3-for-26 with a 32.1 percent strikeout rate so far in June. Manuel Margot will get the call in center field for the Twins on Monday.
Jun 9 2024Buxton went 0-for-5 with a run scored and a stolen base in Sunday's win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton went hitless but managed to reach base on a hit-by-pitch in the 10th inning. He recorded his third stolen base in five tries this season and his first since May 28. Buxton has had a brutal start to the month of June, batting just .115 (3-for-26) with one RBI, one run scored and one stolen base. The 30-year-old continues to start in center field for the Twins due to his defensive prowess, but he has not been a reliable option for fantasy managers.
Jun 6 2024Buxton isn't in the Twins' lineup for Thursday's game against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has gone hitless in 14 at-bats since the beginning of June, and the Twins will give him a day off to regroup during Thursday's series finale. Willi Castro will fill the opening in center field, allowing Kyle Farmer to start at second base while batting eighth.
May 29 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Buxton played the entirety of Tuesday's 4-2 win and reached base four times while adding a steal, his knee collided with the left shin of the Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino in the third inning, when Buxton was running down the first-base line. The Twins haven't indicated that Buxton is dealing with anything more than minor wear and tear a day later, but he'll be given some rest Wednesday in any case. Minnesota will go with Willi Castro in center field against Kansas City starting pitcher Seth Lugo.
May 28 2024Buxton went 2-for-2 with a run scored, a stolen base and two walks during Tuesday's 4-2 win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton got on base in all four plate appearances, logging an infield single in the third frame and generating a triple in the fifth. It wasn't until the bottom of the eighth that Buxton came around to score, reaching via a base on balls and stealing second base before being plated by Edouard Julien on a base hit. Since returning from the IL on May 18, Buxton is batting .267 with two homers and a 27.3 percent strikeout rate.
May 26 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton looks to be getting a breather for the series finale after he had started in each of the past five games while going 5-for-20 with two home runs and one walk. Willi Castro will cover center field in Buxton's stead.
May 22 2024Buxton went 2-for-5 with two home runs and three RBI in Tuesday's 10-0 win over the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old slugger took Patrick Corbin deep in the second and fifth innings, his first long balls in four games since coming off the IL and his first multi-homer performance of 2024. Buxton had managed only one home run in 28 games prior to knee trouble that shut him down in early May, but Tuesday's fireworks are a strong sign he's fully healthy.
May 19 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton went 1-for-4 with a run and an RBI in his return from right knee inflammation Saturday, and he'll sit for the series finale in Cleveland. Willi Castro will man center field Sunday for the Twins.
May 18 2024Buxton went 1-for-4 with a run and an RBI in Saturday's loss to the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was activated from the injured list Saturday after missing over two weeks due to right knee inflammation. The outfielder helped Minnesota avoid being shut out, plating the team's first run in the ninth inning with a single to right field. Buxton is slashing .250/.298/.385 with a home run, 12 RBI, 13 runs and a stolen base through 104 plate appearances this season.
May 16 2024Buxton (knee) will play one more rehab game with Triple-A St. Paul on Thursday before targeting a return to the Twins on Saturday in Cleveland, Darren Wolfson of Channel 5 Saint Paul reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton kicked off a rehab assignment with St. Paul on Wednesday, going 0-for-3 at the plate and playing seven innings in center field. He'll likely be asked to play a full game there Thursday and, assuming all goes well, will be activated Saturday following a day of rest Friday. Buxton has been out since early May while battling right knee inflammation.
May 14 2024Buxton (knee) will play in some minor-league rehab games before being activated, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reported Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was previously thought that Buxton could've been activated Tuesday; however, he'll get some minor league at-bats before being reinstated. The rehab stint should be rather brief, so fantasy managers can expect Buxton to be back within the next week.
May 12 2024Buxton (knee) ran the bases at Target Field on Saturday, and the Twins are optimistic he can be activated from the injured list Tuesday, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins have an off day Monday, but it sounds like Buxton will return when the team begins a series at home Tuesday against the Yankees. Buxton will run again Tuesday to test his knee before the game.
May 6 2024Buxton (knee) has been running in a pool and participating in his normal workouts, but has not been swinging a bat, Dan Hayes of the TheAthletic.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An MRI on Buxton's injured right knee Thursday showed only inflammation and no structural damage. Buxton is optimistic he can return when eligible to come off the IL on May 12. However, the Twins may want to wait two more days until the Twins return from Toronto so he can avoid the AstroTurf of the Rogers Centre.
May 3 2024The Twins placed Buxton on the 10-day injured list Friday with right knee inflammation, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The MRI on his right knee didn't show any structural damage, and GM Derek Falvey indicated Buxton may only require a minimum-length stay on the injured list. However, given the 30-year-old's injury history, there's hardly a guarantee this absence is a brief one. Austin Martin is joining the Twins in a corresponding move.
May 1 2024Buxton will receive an MRI on his right knee after being removed from Wednesday's game versus the White Sox, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hurt his knee while attempting to steal a base during the second inning of Wednesday's victory. The Twins didn't have an update on his status immediately after the game, but manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton would receive an MRI and that the team would use its day off Thursday to assess the situation. A clearer picture regarding the 30-year-old's return timeline will likely come prior to Friday's game against Boston.
Apr 30 2024Buxton is not in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has an .820 OPS and 30.8 percent strikeout rate over his past 10 games and will take a seat Tuesday after starting the previous two contests. Willi Castro will shift to center field while Kyle Farmer receives the start at third base.
Apr 27 2024Buxton isn't in the Twins' lineup Saturday against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will sit down for the start of Saturday's contest after going 1-for-5 with an RBI during Friday's series opener. Alex Kirilloff, Austin Martin and Max Kepler will start across the outfield in his absence, and Trevor Larnach will serve as the Twins' designated hitter.
Apr 25 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton looks to be getting a routine day off, affording Austin Martin a turn in center field Thursday. Buxton has shown signs of life at the plate over his last eight games, slashing .323/.344/.613 with one homer run, four doubles and one triple during that stretch.
Apr 23 2024Buxton went 3-for-4 with a double and a game-tying home run in the ninth inning in Tuesday's win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has started to heat up as he's hitting .333 (9-for-27) with four doubles, a triple and home run over his last seven games. More importantly, he's healthy and playing regularly in center field. He's getting a day at DH and and a day of rest each week, but otherwise is full speed.
Apr 22 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will head to the bench for the series opener in what looks to be a rest day after he had started in center field or at designated hitter in each of the Twins' last six games. Austin Martin will handle duties in center field Monday, while Carlos Santana gets a day out of the field and serves as Minnesota's DH.
Apr 14 2024Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was absent from the starting nine for Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader for the first time this season, though he came off the bench and went 0-for-2 with a run. The 30-year-old has gone 3-for-27 with 14 strikeouts over his past eight contests and will take a seat for Sunday's series finale. Austin Martin will shift to center field while Manuel Margot starts in left.
Apr 13 2024Buxton isn't in the Twins' lineup for the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against Detroit, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton struck out in all three of his at-bats during Friday's loss and will take a seat to begin Saturday's action. Austin Martin will step in to cover center field and bat ninth in Game 1, but Buxton will likely return to the lineup for the second game.
Mar 30 2024Buxton started in center field and went 2-for-4 with two doubles and three RBI in Saturday's win at Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has started each of Minnesota's first two games in center field and looks as healthy as he's been since the first half of the 2022 season. He'll likely get days off from playing the outfield each week to keep him fresh.
Mar 20 2024Buxton (back) is starting at designated hitter and batting second for the Twins in Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had to be scratched from the lineup Monday because of back tightness, but he's set to return to action Wednesday. The 30-year-old has had a very productive spring training, posting a 1.074 OPS with one home run. He'll be the Twins' primary center fielder in 2024 but will also see time at DH.
Mar 18 2024Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said Monday that Buxton's back injury is minor and the outfielder is expected to return to the lineup soon, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was a late scratch from Monday's lineup, but it sounds like the club is just being cautious. The Twins are off Tuesday, but it sounds like Buxton could return as soon as Wednesday. He's 8-for-24 with one home run and two triples at the plate so far this spring.
Mar 1 2024Buxton started in center field and went 0-for-2 with a walk in Friday's spring training win over Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton played his second game in center field in four days without issue, which is a sign the Twins are confident he's healthy as the regular season approaches. The Twins plan for the talented 30-year-old to be the team's primary center fielder in 2024 after he was a full-time designated hitter in 2023. Buxton underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee in October in order to limit the chances of future flareups of the patella tendinitis that kept him from playing in the field.
Feb 27 2024Buxton is starting in center field and batting second for the Twins in Tuesday's Grapefruit League contest versus the Phillies, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's Buxton's first start this spring and the first time he'll play center field since August 2022. The plan is for the talented 30-year-old to be the Twins' primary center fielder in 2024 after he was a full-time designated hitter in 2023. Buxton had knee surgery in October but reported to camp fully healthy.
Feb 19 2024Buxton told reporters Monday that he thinks he can steal 30 bases this season, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has never stolen 30 bases in a major-league season, with the closest coming back in 2017 when he pilfered 29 bags. That was also the only time he's played 100-plus games in a season. Since 2020, Buxton has stolen a total of 26 bases across 277 contests. The odds that he is able to stay healthy enough to reach the 30-steal plateau in 2024 aren't high, but it's nonetheless encouraging that he's feeling good enough to make such a proclamation. Buxton is slated to return to center field this season after spending all of 2023 at designated hitter.
Feb 17 2024Buxton (knee) said Saturday that he is "100 percent" healthy and expects to have a normal buildup during spring training, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee in October in order to limit the chances of future flareups of the patella tendinitis that caused him to miss the final month of the 2023 season. Now fully recovered from surgery, Buxton will prepare for a return to center field after exclusively operating as Minnesota's designated hitter last year.
Dec 5 2023Buxton (knee) is expected to begin baseball activities next week and the Twins plan for him to be the team's starting center fielder next season, the Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. "We're going to go into spring training planning on, if everything continues to go well, having him out there in center field and very hopeful that the procedure he had puts him in the spot he needs to be in," manager Rocco Baldelli said, "but we also have to plan for everything, as usual." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent an arthroscopic procedure in October on his right knee to clean up scarring from a 2022 surgery that led to irritation. Buxton had a workout at Target Field last week and was able to do some activities that he was unable to last season. Buxton wasn't able to play in the field last season due to his knee issues (aside from one game during a minor league rehab stint). While the Twins are optimistic he'll be able to play in the field, the team will seek to find options for a backup given that Buxton hasn't played more than 100 games in seven years and Michael Taylor elected free agency.
Oct 13 2023Buxton underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee Friday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton experienced a flareup of the patella tendinitis in his knee during the late stages of the season, and his procedure should help lower his risk for additional flareups in the future. The Twins didn't specify exactly how long Buxton will be held out, but the team still expects him to be able to play in center field next season.
Oct 11 2023Buxton (knee) was added to the Twins' active roster Wednesday ahead of ALDS Game 4 against the Astros, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hasn't appeared in a major-league game since Aug. 1 due to a right knee injury and is not in the lineup for Game 4 on Wednesday night at Target Field, but the 29-year-old could prove to be a weapon off the bench as the Twins aim to avoid elimination. Minnesota is currently down 2-1 in the best-of-five series. Alex Kirilloff (undisclosed) was placed on the injured list in a corresponding move.
Oct 7 2023Buxton (knee) isn't on the Twins' roster for the ALDS, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been slowly working his way back from a knee injury that has held him out for over two months and advanced to taking live batting practice Friday, but he officially won't be able to make it back before the start of the AL Divisional Series. Buxton remains without a set return timeline, and it's unclear if he will be able to make an appearance in the postseason.
Oct 6 2023Buxton (knee) is with the Twins in Houston but "sounded far from certain of the possibility" of being added to their ALDS roster, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton continues to rehab his nagging right knee issue, and while he believes he'd be able to play, he admits it would be in a limited capacity. "It wouldn't probably be at the speed I want it to be, and that's one of those where I don't want to hurt the team," Buxton said. "It's kind of one of those where I don't want to put the team in a bad spot with me coming back at 50, 60, 70 percent." Complicating a potential return for Buxton is that he doesn't appear ready to play the outfield and Royce Lewis (hamstring) also remains limited to designated hitter duty. Buxton hasn't played for the Twins in more than two months.
Oct 3 2023Buxton (knee) has been left off the Twins' AL Wild Card Series roster, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Things were trending in this direction, as Buxton was not present for the Twins' workout Monday. He hasn't played with the big club since early August while dealing with a hamstring injury and more recently an aggravation of his knee issue. Buxton could potentially be added to the Twins' roster should they advance to the ALDS, although the former wouldn't seem to be a given.
Oct 2 2023Buxton (knee) did not participate during the Twins' on-field workout Monday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It seems likely that Buxton probably did some stuff out of the public view Monday, but he was not part of the workout with his teammates. Buxton has been sidelined since early August with a hamstring injury and more recently a flare-up with his knee issue. His inclusion on the Twins' Wild Card Series roster has to be considered a major question mark at this point.
Sep 26 2023Buxton (knee) will work out with the Twins this week with the minor league season over as Minnesota evaluates him for a possible addition to the postseason roster, MLB.com reports. He went 1-for-8 during two games at Triple-A St. Paul last weekend. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It seems unlikely he'll be activated from the injured list ahead of the playoffs especially with the Twins playing their final series on the road in Colorado. Buxton's last rehab stint in early September was shut down after two games due to a flareup of the patella tendinitis in his right knee. It's encouraging he made it through two games over the weekend without a setback, but he didn't play in the field and didn't get much work due to a rainout in St. Paul. He may not be activated for the postseason roster as a result. It's hard to see how the Twins could elect to use him in center field in the playoffs even though that was probably the plan when his first rehab stint started in early September.
Sep 22 2023Buxton (knee) went 1-for-4 during a rehab assignment Thursday for Triple-A St. Paul. He had a scheduled off day Friday and will play again for St. Paul on Saturday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not clear when or if he'll play in center field again. If Buxton can stay healthy (his last rehab stint was shut down after two games due to a flareup of the patella tendinitis in his right knee), it's not clear if he'll be able to get enough at-bats to show he can be activated for the playoffs with the minor league season ending this weekend.
Sep 20 2023Buxton (knee) will resume playing in rehab games with Triple-A St. Paul on Thursday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton's assignment was shut down after he suffered a knee injury in a Triple-A game Sept. 1 while working his way back from a strained hamstring. He has received a cortisone injection in his knee since then and has now been cleared to resume game action. Barring any further setbacks, Buxton could still make his way back into the Twins' lineup before the end of the regular season.
Sep 13 2023Buxton was given a cortisone injection in his injured right knee Sunday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was pulled off a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul early last week due to a flareup of the patella tendinitis in his knee. Simply resting wasn't doing the trick, so the decision was made to give him a cortisone injection in hopes that it will speed along the healing process. The Twins remain hopeful that Buxton will be able to get into some rehab games and return before the end of the regular season, although there's no timetable at this point for either of those things.
Sep 8 2023Buxton (knee/hamstring) will meet with members of the Twins' front office and medical staff Friday to discuss the next steps in his recovery, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton initially went on the 10-day injured list in early August with a strained right hamstring, but it was a flareup of the patella tendinitis in his right knee which caused him to pause his rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul earlier this week. The team has said Buxton didn't suffer a new injury and it's something that was somewhat expected as he attempted to play center field for the first time this year. That said, when he might re-start a rehab assignment and whether the plan is still to try him in center field likely won't become clear until after Friday's meeting.
Sep 4 2023Buxton (knee) will not accompany the St. Paul Saints on their upcoming six-game road trip as his rehab stint at Triple-A will be paused after a flareup of patella tendinitis in his right knee, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins haven't ruled out Buxton from returning this season or playing in center field, but time is running out as he'll likely need to play a few rehab games if his knee improves. Buxton played the first game of a rehab assignment Wednesday in center field, took Thursday off and then left Friday's game after two at-bats while serving as a designated hitter. It's not clear when he may play another rehab game, but the Twins apparently don't believe that he's dealing with a serious setback. Buxton has been on the injured list since Aug. 4 with a strained right hamstring and has served exclusively as a designated hitter in the majors this season due to limitations related to his September 2022 right knee surgery.
Sep 2 2023Buxton has been diagnosed with a flareup of patella tendinitis in his right knee after leaving Friday's rehab game for Triple-A St. Paul, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. "He didn't hurt himself. It's just a matter of, the more he's on his feet, the more his knee is feeling it right now," Baldelli said. "He's had this before. We'll continue to treat it day-to-day, like we have all along. We still expect him back this year." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton played the first game of a rehab assignment Wednesday in center field, took Thursday off and then left Friday's game after two at-bats while playing DH. It's not clear when he may play another rehab game. The Twins had been hoping he could return and play center field on a semi-regular basis in September. Buxton has been on the injured list since Aug. 4 with a strained right hamstring and has served exclusively as a designated hitter in the majors this season due to limitations related to his September 2022 right knee surgery.
Sep 1 2023Buxton experienced soreness in the patella tendon of his right knee while playing for Triple-A St. Paul on Friday as DH, and was removed from the game after two at-bats, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton played the first game of his rehab assignment on Wednesday, which was his first game in center field this year. He then had an off day Thursday. This sounds like a setback which could put his return from the injured list in doubt. The Twins had been hopeful he could return and play center field on a semi regular basis in September. Buxton has been on the injured list since Aug. 4 with a strained right hamstring. He served exclusively as a designated hitter before the rehab assignment due to limitations related to his September 2022 right knee surgery.
Aug 31 2023Buxton (hamstring) started in center field Wednesday and went 1-for-2 with two walks at Triple-A St. Paul. He played seven innings. It was the first time Buxton has played in the field in 2023. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been on the injured list since Aug. 4 with a strained right hamstring. It's not clear how long his rehab assignment will last, but he could be activated in early September. Once activated, the 29-year-old looks like he'll get the chance to play his first innings in the field with the big club in 2023 after serving exclusively as a designated hitter prior to landing on the IL on Aug. 4.
Aug 29 2023Buxton (hamstring) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul on Wednesday, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been on the injured list since Aug. 4 with a strained right hamstring, and he's now set to begin the final stage of his rehab process. There's no official word on how long Buxton will remain in the minors, but an early-September return is expected.
Aug 27 2023Buxton (hamstring) will run the bases Monday and take live at-bats Tuesday before potentially heading out on a minor-league rehab assignment, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton doesn't look as though he's on pace to return from the 10-day injured list when the Twins' roster expands from 26 to 28 men Friday, but he could be activated soon after that if he's able to head out on a rehab assignment this weekend. According to Hayes, the Twins are still planning on having Buxton log some time in center field during his time in the minors. Once activated, the 29-year-old looks like he'll get the chance to play his first innings in the field with the big club in 2023 after serving exclusively as a designated hitter prior to landing on the IL on Aug. 4.
Aug 26 2023Buxton (hamstring) was spotted shagging flyballs in center field Friday in Arlington but he remains without a clear timeline to begin a minor-league rehab assignment, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. "He's still building up and getting where he needs to be for us to take the next step," manager Rocco Baldelli said, when asked about Buxton's status. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been on the shelf since Aug. 4 with a right hamstring strain. The Twins still anticipate Buxton making his return from the 10-day injured list at some point in September, but until he reaches the point in his recovery program where he's ready for a rehab assignment, a target date for his activation won't be available. Buxton has served exclusively as a designated hitter this season, but the fact that he was seen in the outfield Friday adds credence to the notion that the Twins are planning on having him make at least a handful of starts in center field once he's activated.
Aug 19 2023Buxton (hamstring) could play center field after his return from the injured list, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has exclusively served as the Twins' designated hitter this season in an effort to keep him healthy, but it's hard to call the plan a success. Even with the extreme caution, he's still hit the injured list twice, though as long as he returns in time to appear in eight more games, he will have reached the second-highest mark (93) of his career. His numbers at the plate (.207/.294/.438) have taken a considerable hit, however, which may or may not be linked with his role change. The Twins have yet to officially announce that he will indeed start outfield work as part of his rehab, but manager Rocco Baldelli did say Saturday that the team was having conversations about the idea.
Aug 15 2023Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Tuesday that Buxton (hamstring) is getting better but will need to go on a rehab assignment before returning, John Shipley of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been on the injured list since Aug. 4 with right hamstring tightness. Although his return doesn't seem to be imminent, it's a good sign to hear that he's trending upward. A clearer timeline for Buxton's activation will likely come once he begins his assignment, but a late-August return is certainly possible.
Aug 4 2023Twins bench coach Jayce Tingler said Friday that Buxton (hamstring) will be shut down for the next two weeks, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was placed on the 10-day injured list Friday due to nagging tightness in his right hamstring that has since been diagnosed as a muscle strain. The team will see how he responds to the two-week shutdown period before attempting to map out a timetable for his return. Matt Wallner is serving as Minnesota's designated hitter Friday night against the Diamondbacks.
Aug 3 2023Buxton (hamstring) remains out of the lineup Thursday at St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was scratched from the Twins' lineup Wednesday due to right hamstring tightness and needs at least one more day of rest and treatment. Jorge Polanco will take a turn at designated hitter Thursday while Kyle Farmer covers third base.
Aug 2 2023Buxton was scratched from the lineup Wednesday at St. Louis with right hamstring tightness, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton may have tweaked his hamstring while legging out a double in the Twins' defeat of the Cardinals on Tuesday night. There's no word yet as to the severity of the injury. Consider him day-to-day for now.
Jul 30 2023Buxton went 3-for-3 with three doubles, two runs scored and two RBI in Saturday's 10-7 loss to the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He was also hit by a pitch. Buxton clawed his way back over the Mendoza Line with the performance, but his .206/.295/.436 slash line remains far below expectations. The 29-year-old also has yet to play a game in the field in 2023, making all his starts at DH, and it's fair to wonder if his surgically repaired right knee has ever been 100 percent healthy in 2023.
Jul 28 2023Buxton is absent from the lineup Friday at Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is back from paternity leave, but he'll be on the bench as the Twins open a three-game series against the Royals. Matt Wallner is taking a turn at designated hitter and hitting sixth.
Jul 27 2023Buxton was activated from the paternity leave list Thursday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins are off Thursday, but Buxton will be back in action this weekend in Kansas City. He's just 3-for-33 with 17 strikeouts at the plate so far in the second half.
Jul 24 2023Buxton was placed on the paternity leave list Monday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will likely miss the entirety of the Twins' series against the Mariners but should rejoin the club this weekend in Kansas City. Trevor Larnach has been recalled to take Buxton's spot on the roster and is an option to see starts in Buxton's vacated designated hitter spot.
Jul 22 2023Buxton went 2-for-4 with two homers and four RBI in Friday's victory over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton clocked a three-run homer in the first inning followed by a solo shot in the fourth. He finally snapped out of an ugly 1-for-35 skid with his first extra-base hit since July 4. Buxton has 17 home runs but his 31.5 percent strikeout rate has led to an unsightly .197/.284/.426 slash line. The 29-year-old was dropped to sixth in the lineup Friday, just the sixth time he's hit lower than the cleanup spot this year.
Jul 19 2023Buxton remains out of the lineup for Wednesday's contest in Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the second day off in a row for Buxton, who is in the middle of a 0-for-21 stretch with 13 strikeouts. What's unclear is whether the mental break he's receiving will extend beyond two games. Matt Wallner is again handling designated hitter duties for Minnesota.
Jul 18 2023Buxton is absent from the lineup for Tuesday's game in Seattle, Patrick Reusse of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matt Wallner will be the Twins' designated hitter. Reusse categorizes it as a "mental break" for Buxton, who is 0-for-21 with 13 strikeouts over his last five games. It hasn't been a total loss in Roto leagues with Buxton hitting 15 homers and stealing eight bases in 2023. However, the 29-year-old is slashing just .196/.285/.409 on the season and his 31.3 percent strikeout rate would be his highest since 2016.
Jul 5 2023Buxton went 3-for-4 with a solo home run, two additional runs scored and a stolen base in Tuesday's 9-3 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He took Zack Greinke deep in the fifth inning, giving Buxton 15 homers on the year, while his seventh-inning steal was his eighth. The 29-year-old has eight hits in his last six games, including two separate contests with a home run and a stolen base, and while his .216/306/.457 slash line on the season remains disappointing, he's showing signs of turning things around in the second half.
Jul 1 2023Buxton went 2-for-4 with a walk, a double, a three-run home run, a second run scored and a stolen base in Friday's 8-1 rout of the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was one of the most complete performances of the season for the 29-year-old, who last stole a base May 24. Buxton hasn't been able to deliver consistent production this season, but he's at least beginning to find his power stroke again -- over his last 10 games, he's batting .242 (8-for-33) with seven of the hits (three doubles and four homers) going for extra bases.
Jun 27 2023Buxton is back in the lineup Tuesday against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will serve as the Twins' designated hitter and cleanup man after being relegated to pinch-hitting duties Sunday and Monday. He's been bothered recently by back spasms and is also still limited by lingering knee troubles. There's no timetable for when he might return to the outfield.
Jun 26 2023Buxton is absent from the lineup Monday at Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton might still be experiencing complications related to the back spasms that prompted his early exit from Saturday's game against the Tigers, though he did appear off the bench in Sunday's series finale. Edouard Julien will handle the DH duties and hit leadoff for the Twins on Monday versus Atlanta.
Jun 25 2023Buxton (back) ground out as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning in Sunday's win at Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton exited Saturday's contest due to back spasms, but it looks like a minor issue since he was able to play Sunday. He could be back in the starting lineup Monday against Atlanta.
Jun 24 2023Buxton will test his back before Sunday's game versus the Tigers, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Twins manager Rocco Baldelli told reporters after Saturday's game that Buxton aggravated a season-long issue in his back. The 29-year-old attempted to stay in the game by testing it out in swings, but he wasn't able to stay in the game. Whether Buxton is able to play in the series finale against Detroit on Sunday will be determined largely by how he feels during that testing.
Jun 23 2023Buxton went 2-for-4 with two solo homers in Thursday's victory over the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton wasn't messing around, crushing mammoth home runs of 466 and 465 feet in his first two at-bats. He would not reach base again in the contest, but the damage had already been done as the Twins cruised to a shutout victory to split the series with Boston. After going hitless through his first six games in June, the slugger is now 5-for-11 with three homers, four RBI and four runs scored over his last three games.
Jun 20 2023Buxton went 2-for-3 with a two-run homer in Tuesday's loss to Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton swatted his 11th homer of the campaign, taking Corey Kluber yard in the eighth inning to plate Edouard Julien for MInnesota's first runs of the game. The multi-hit outing was Buxton's first since May 23 and also broke a 10-game cold snap where he went 1-for-34 (0.29) with 17 strikeouts. Though Buxton has been hampered by a knee and ribs injury throughout 2023, Tuesday's contest may be a signal of better things to come from the 29-year-old.
Jun 18 2023Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is 0-for-12 with seven strikeouts in three games since he returned from the injured list Thursday, so he'll receive a breather for the series finale versus Detroit. Edouard Julien will serve as the designated hitter while Kyle Farmer receives the start at second base Sunday.
Jun 15 2023Buxton (rib) was activated from the 10-day injured list Thursday, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton wound up being sidelined a few days past the minimum 10-day stay on the IL with a left rib contusion, but he's ready to go now for the Twins' four-game weekend series against the Tigers. The 29-year-old had been in a 2-for-22 rut at the plate before getting injured when he took a Tanner Bibee pitch to the ribs back on June 1.
Jun 13 2023Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Tuesday that Buxton (rib) will remain on the injured list for a couple more days, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was eligible to be activated from the 10-day injured list ahead of Tuesday night's series opener against the Brewers, but the Twins want him to do a bit more side work as he recovers from a left rib contusion. There has been a carousel at DH in his ongoing absence from Minnesota's lineup.
Jun 6 2023The Twins placed Buxton on the 10-day injured list Tuesday, retroactive to Saturday, with a left rib contusion. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hasn't played since taking a pitch to the ribs Thursday, and the Twins have now decided to shelve him for at least another week. His move to the injured list opens a spot for Trevor Larnach (illness) to return from the 10-day IL.
Jun 4 2023Buxton (ribs) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game versus the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Both Buxton and Carlos Correa (heel) will not be in the starting lineup against the Guardians for the finale of the three-game set. Buxton avoided a fracture after being hit by a pitch Thursday, but he'll miss a third straight game while recovering from the injury. Royce Lewis is the designated hitter for Sunday's contest against Triston McKenzie and the Guardians.
Jun 3 2023Buxton (ribs) will sit as expected Saturday against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton avoided a fractured rib after getting hit by a pitch Thursday but was nonetheless expected to miss multiple games. He'll miss his second in a row Saturday, with Ryan Jeffers serving as the designated hitter.
Jun 2 2023Buxton (ribs) will likely miss multiple games, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The good news is that Buxton's ribs aren't broken after he was hit by a pitch in Thursday's contest, but he is still in a lot of pain. Alex Kirilloff will serve as Minnesota's designated hitter Friday, moving Joey Gallo into left field and Donovan Solano in as the Twins' first baseman.
Jun 1 2023Buxton was lifted from Thursday's game against Cleveland after getting hit in the ribs by a pitch, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton had been playing at less than 100 percent due to lingering knee problems, and now Buxton could be facing another injury, this one to his ribs. The team will take a look at him and provide an update on how serious his injury is, but Buxton should be considered day-to-day for the time being.
May 31 2023Buxton is not in the lineup for Wednesday's contest in Houston, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He also didn't start the series opener Monday. While Buxton hasn't had a setback with his knee issue, Twins manager Rocco Baldelli admits that the slugger is playing at less than 100 percent. "Is he at his absolute strongest and most dynamic right now? No, he's not, so we want to take this as really an opportunity to let him recharge a little bit," Baldelli said. The Twins are going with Joey Gallo at designated hitter against Astros righty Hunter Brown.
May 29 2023Buxton is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is presumably getting a maintenance day in the series opener after he served as the Twins' designated hitter in each of the team's last six games. Alex Kirilloff will handle those duties Monday, but Buxton should be back in the lineup Tuesday against Astros right-hander Brandon Bielak. The Twins have yet to decide on when Buxton will be ready to pick up work in center field, as he's made all 47 of his starts to date as a DH.
May 24 2023Buxton went 2-for-4 with a two-run homer and a stolen base in Tuesday's loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton got things started quickly with a two-run blast to center in the opening frame and then swiped his fifth bag of the year after reaching in the fourth. The 29-year-old has four multi-hit efforts over his last eight games and seems to be past the knee issue that cost him a game over the weekend. He's now slashing .238/.346/.494 with 10 homers, 23 RBI, 31 runs and a 25:52 BB:K over 188 plate appearances.
May 22 2023Buxton (knee) is back in the Twins' lineup for Monday's game against the Giants, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton exited Saturday's game versus the Angels and sat out Sunday with some tightness around his right knee, but he apparently has checked out fine and is back in the lineup Monday. He will be the Twins' designated hitter and cleanup man.
May 21 2023Buxton (calf) is out of the lineup against the Angels on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was removed from Saturday's game against Los Angeles with tightness in his calf, and he'll miss at least one game while on the mend. Edouard Julien is hitting cleanup and operating as the designated hitter while Buxton sits.
May 20 2023Buxton left Saturday's game against the Angels with right calf tightness, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was removed for Edouard Julien in the sixth inning, with Julien remaining in the game in the designated hitter spot. At this point, Buxton should be considered day-to-day, but there should be an update on his status before Sunday's series finale against the Angels.
May 17 2023Buxton went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Wednesday's 7-3 loss to the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton got the Twins on the board in the fourth inning with a solo shot off Dylan Covey, tying the game 1-1. The 29-year-old Buxton has been on fire lately, going 7-for-18 with three extra-base hits in his last four games after going 0-for-23 in his previous seven contests. He's slashing .236/.341/.493 with nine homers, 21 RBI and four steals through 173 plate appearances this season.
May 16 2023Buxton went 2-for-4 with a double, a walk, two stolen bases and two runs scored in Tuesday's 5-1 win over the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton doubled his stolen-base total for the season in this contest. He's logged a pair of hits in each of his last three games, rebounding from an 0-for-23 skid over seven contests prior to him getting a rest day Saturday. The 29-year-old is slashing .234/.337/.476 with eight home runs, four steals, 20 RBI, 27 runs scored, nine doubles and a triple through 39 games this season.
May 13 2023Buxton will sit Saturday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has exclusively served as the designated hitter this season, but the plan has enabledhim to start nearly every day. He'll hit the bench Saturday after starting 14 consecutive games, with Alex Kirilloff getting the chance to rest his legs in the DH spot. Buxton has gone hitless in seven straight games, so the Twins will hope the off day helps him reset at the plate.
May 4 2023Buxton went 1-for-4 with a solo home run in Thursday's win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had an up-and-down performance Thursday, finishing the contest with a pair of walks, a pair of strikeouts and a game-tying solo home run in the eighth inning. The long ball marked Buxton's eighth in 29 games, while the 29-year-old holds a .262/.350/.570 slash line on the year. As long as Buxton stays healthy, which is a tall task considering he has played over 100 games just once in his nine MLB seasons, he should produce big numbers for fantasy managers who were willing to take the risk.
May 3 2023Buxton went 1-for-4 with a walk, a stolen base and a run in Tuesday's 3-2 loss to the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton walked in the third and stole second for his first stolen base of the year. He later singled in the sixth and came around to score the Twins' first run on a sacrifice fly. Despite being one of the fastest players in all of baseball, Buxton has not topped more than 10 steals since 2019. Health has certainly played a factor, and while it would be a welcome sight for fantasy managers if steals became a part of his repertoire once again, that should not be expected. The 29-year-old sits at a slash line of .257/.327/.545 with seven homers, 17 RBI, 20 runs and a 11:36 BB:K over 113 plate appearances thus far.
Apr 30 2023Buxton went 2-for-4 with a three-run homer, a double and scored twice in Sunday's 8-4 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton led off the second inning with a double to right and would come around to score the first run of the game. He then ignited a seven-run third inning with a three-run blast to left that traveled 453 feet. The 29-year-old has four home runs in his last five games and is up to a slash line of .258/.324/.557 with seven homers, 17 RBI, 19 runs and a 10:34 BB:K over 108 plate appearances.
Apr 28 2023Buxton went 1-for-4 with a three-run home run in Thursday's 7-1 win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton's three-run homer broke the game open in the fourth inning, extending Minnesota's lead to 6-1. The 29-year-old is slashing .244/.305/.488 so far this season, and he now has hits in six of his last seven games.
Apr 4 2023Buxton is not in the Twins' lineup for Tuesday's game in Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It looks to be a routine day off for Buxton, who had started each of the Twins' first four games this season in the designated hitter spot. Solano will be the DH on Tuesday, while Michael Taylor will again handle center field.
Apr 3 2023Buxton is starting at designated hitter and batting third for the Twins in Monday's matchup in Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Rocco Baldelli noted before the season that he planned for Buxton to spend most of his time at DH in the early going, and so far he's slotted in there all four games while Michael Taylor plays center field. Baldelli's lineups have been surprisingly static, with the only change to this point coming Sunday, when Ryan Jeffers gave Christian Vazquez a day off at catcher.
Apr 1 2023Buxton went 2-for-4 with two runs scored and a double in Saturday's victory over Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has picked up extra-base hits in each of his first two games, as he tripled on Opening Day and laced a double off Jordan Lyles on Saturday. Over nine at-bats to open the season he's now hitting .444 with a .778 slugging percentage. Buxton has been the designated hitter in the first two games for Minnesota, and it's allowed the 29-year-old to make an immediate impact with the bat without the physical toll of playing in the field.
Mar 31 2023Buxton started at DH and went 2-for-5 with a triple in Thursday's season-opening win at Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in late September, and the Twins eased him into action during the spring. He only played in major league spring games at the end of March and then only DH. The Twins say they plan to play Buxton at DH almost exclusively in April and maybe beyond to ease him into action and keep him healthy. If he continues to perform like on Opening Day, the plan will more than offset his loss of defensive value in center field.
Mar 18 2023Buxton went 3-for-3 with a double and a walk in a minor-league game Saturday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in late September and the Twins are being very careful about easing him into action this spring. Twins management has said Buxton hasn't had any issues, but it's still encouraging to see him play in two games, even if they're just minor-league contests, in the past week. He'll likely play in a few major-league spring games before Opening Day.
Mar 16 2023Buxton played in a minor-league game Thursday in Twins camp, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was the first live action of the spring for Buxton, who has been brought along slowly by design after yet another injury-plagued campaign in 2022. The dynamic 29-year-old outfielder currently carries a clean bill of health and is hoping to show improved durability in 2023. When healthy last year, he delivered a strong .833 OPS with 28 home runs and six stolen bases in 92 games.
Mar 10 2023Buxton's absence from Grapefruit League games to this point has been by design and not related to injury, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Per Gleeman, the Twins don't see spring training games as more useful for veterans than back-field work. Buxton entered camp with no health restrictions and will play in some Grapefruit League games eventually, although it's unclear when that might happen.
Feb 19 2023Buxton (knee) reported to Twins camp Friday and doesn't have any limitations to begin spring training, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in late September but apparently had no issues during the rehab process, and he looked good during a workout Saturday. President of baseball operations Derek Falvey said the organization will "take it slow in the early going" with Buxton this spring, which is hardly surprising given the center fielder's injury history. Falvey reiterated that Buxton reported to camp with no issues, but it's worth keeping an eye on his status throughout the spring. He was limited to 92 games last season and hit .224 with a 30.4 percent strikeout rate, but he also clubbed a career-high 28 home runs.
Sep 23 2022Buxton (hip) will undergo season-ending arthroscopic knee surgery Tuesday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been on the injured list with a low-grade right hip strain for a month and was initially expected to return prior to the end of the season. The 28-year-old likely would have returned if the Twins were in the playoff picture, but he'll instead undergo a season-ending knee procedure now that the team has been eliminated. Buxton's surgery has been described as insignificant by the Twins, and he should be ready to return in time for spring training in 2023.
Sep 10 2022Buxton (hip) is expected to return prior to the end of the regular season, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hasn't yet resumed baseball activities, and manager Rocco Baldelli said Saturday that he doesn't expect the outfielder to return this weekend or early next week. However, the team still hopes that the 28-year-old will be able to contribute late in the year.
Sep 8 2022Buxton (hip) has not started baseball activities, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "We're still kind of at the beginning phases of getting him moving and activating different parts of his lower half and getting back to some baseball activity. We're not quite there yet," said manager Rocco Baldelli. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was placed on the injured list Aug. 23 with a low-grade right hip strain and it was thought initially he may travel with the Twins during the current road trip. However, now it sounds like the Twins will be lucky to see him return in September.
Aug 29 2022Buxton (hip) will not travel with the team for its upcoming road trip but could join later on if he shows enough improvement, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will continue to take part in his rehab from Minnesota, but there is a small bit of hope that he could join the team on the upcoming road trip, which concludes Sept. 8 against the Yankees. His availability will hinge on how he feels in his rehab activities after playing banged up for most of the 2022 campaign.
Aug 23 2022Buxton was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a right hip strain, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton's hip injury was already serious enough to warrant an MRI, and the fact that he didn't travel with the team to Houston suggested a stint on the IL was on tap. Gilberto Celestino and Jake Cave could see extra playing time while Buxton is out.
Aug 22 2022Buxton will get an MRI on his sore right hip and will not play Tuesday, Patrick Borzi of Minnesota Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was pulled from Monday's game with the hip issue. It sounds like this could be more than a day-to-day injury, but we'll know more after the MRI.
Aug 21 2022Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton started each of the past eight games either in center field or at designated hitter, so the Twins are presumably just giving him some routine maintenance in the series finale. Nick Gordon will draw the start in center and Luis Arraez will serve as the Twins' DH on Sunday.
Aug 14 2022Buxton went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run and a stolen base in a 4-2 loss to the Angels on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton provided all of Minnesota's offense with a two-run shot off Los Angeles' starter Tucker Davidson in the first inning and added a single and stolen base in the sixth for his second two-hit game in his last four. During the span, he's batted 5-for-17 with two home runs and two stolen bases. Buxton started at DH after appearing in center field during the last two contests but is most likely feeling healthier after logging a theft for the second straight game.
Aug 13 2022Buxton went 0-for-5 with a stolen base, a hit-by-pitch and three strikeouts in Saturday's 5-3 extra-innings loss to the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton didn't get much going at the plate Saturday, but he was able to generate a little value in his one trip on base. The steal was his fourth of the year and his second in his last nine games, a span in which he's hit just .233 (7-for-30). Buxton has started each of the last two contests in center field, though he may be due for a rest soon as the Twins continue to manage the oft-injured outfielder's workload. He's slashing .219/.300/.537 with 27 home runs, 49 RBI and 58 runs scored through 85 games this season.
Aug 10 2022Buxton isn't starting Wednesday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will take a seat for the third time in the last five matchups after he went 3-for-9 with a homer, a double, three RBI, a walk and three strikeouts over his last three games. Nick Gordon is shifting to center field while Jake Cave starts in left.
Aug 9 2022Buxton went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in a 10-3 loss to the Dodgers on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton singled in the sixth inning and took reliever Phil Bickford deep to left in the eighth for his fourth long ball of the second half. The successful game improved his slash line to .222/.301/.549, though the bigger story is that the 28-year-old started again at DH despite two straight off days. Minnesota is taking a cautious approach with their injury-prone star even as Buxton (undisclosed) hasn't played the field since July 31 aside from one inning Sunday.
Aug 7 2022Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even though he received the day off in Friday's 6-5 win and served as a designated hitter in Saturday's 7-3 victory, Buxton will get another breather for the series finale. The Twins haven't indicated Buxton is still experiencing any lingering body soreness after he missed two straight games earlier in the week, so his absence from the lineup Sunday could simply be a precaution. Luis Arraez will serve as the Twins' DH on Sunday, while Gilberto Celestino gets a start in center field.
Aug 5 2022Buxton is not in Friday's lineup against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It seems that Buxton hasn't been 100 percent healthy since early in the season, and the Twins' approach has been to give him strategic rest days to manage his persistent lower-body issues. He is hitting .197/.281/.478 with 17 home runs and two steals in his last 62 games. Mark Contreras is starting in center field and batting eighth.
Aug 3 2022Buxton (undisclosed) is starting Wednesday against Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was on the bench for the last two games due to some apparent soreness, but he'll serve as the designated hitter and lead off Wednesday. Over his last five matchups, the 28-year-old has gone 5-for-18 with three home runs, a double, five runs, three RBI and a stolen base.
Aug 2 2022Buxton (undisclosed) is not in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins were hoping to get Buxton back Tuesday, but he will open on the bench for a second straight day. Nick Gordon will get the nod in center field in Buxton's place.
Aug 1 2022Buxton, according to manager Rocco Baldelli, "was not going to be able to play (Monday)" due to some apparent soreness, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baldelli indicated that Buxton could have made things worse by taking the field Monday, so he was held out of the game altogether. Baldelli is hoping that will be the extent of the absence, but Buxton will likely enter Tuesday less than 100 percent.
Jul 30 2022Buxton went 2-for-3 with a solo home run, a walk, an additional run and a stolen base in a 7-4 win against the Padres on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton took San Diego starter Joe Musgrove 434 feet deep to left in the fourth inning, walked in the sixth and singled, stole second and scored in the eighth. The dynamic 28-year-old has started the second half strong with three long balls in four games, while the theft was his second of July but only his third of the campaign. Buxton is slashing .222/.297/.556 with 26 home runs, 55 runs, 46 RBI and three stolen bases in 288 at-bats.
Jul 29 2022Buxton went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Friday's 10-1 loss to the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has homered twice in three games since recovering from a platelet-rich plasma injection last week. The outfielder is 3-for-12 in his last three games, and all three of those hits have gone for extra bases. He's batting .218 with an .835 OPS, 25 homers, 45 RBI, 53 runs scored, 12 doubles, three triples and two stolen bases in 76 contests, though he will likely continue to receive regular rest to manage his workload.
Jul 27 2022Buxton (knee) went 2-for-5 with a solo home run, a double and an additional run in Tuesday's 7-6 loss to the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After getting an injection for his lingering right knee injury following his appearance in the All-Star Game last week, Buxton was cleared to make his second-half debut Tuesday. In addition to occupying his usual spot in center field, Buxton was in top form at the plate, adding two extra-base hits to his ledger. According to Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Buxton will serve as the Twins' designated hitter and No. 3 batter in Wednesday's series finale with Milwaukee, but the 28-year-old isn't believed to have suffered any sort of setback with the knee.
Jul 26 2022Buxton (knee) is batting leadoff and playing center field Tuesday versus the Brewers, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A PRP injection had sidelined the power-hitting center fielder since before the All-Star break. Buxton takes his .216/.293/.531 slash line and 23 home runs into a matchup with lefty Ethan Small.
Jul 23 2022Buxton, who is not in Saturday's lineup against the Tigers, received a platelet-rich plasma injection in his right knee the day after the All-Star Game and won't return until next week's series in Milwaukee at the earliest, Megan Ryan of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The positive spin is that the PRP injection will help his knee heal, but he will nonetheless be unavailable in the short term for the rest of this weekend's series against the Tigers. The Twins have two off days next week, which could also help Buxton manage the issue. As has been the case for most of the season, the Twins are opting for giving Buxton strategic time off rather than be without him for an extended stretch via a trip to the injured list.
Jul 10 2022Buxton went 1-for-4 with a solo home run and a walk in Sunday's 6-5 win over the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has gotten off to a cold start in July, going 4-for-34 (.118) in eight contests. He's salvaged some fantasy value from the slump, as all four of his hits this month have gone for extra bases (three homers, one double), and he's added a stolen base. The outfielder is up to 23 long balls, 42 RBI, 48 runs scored and a .215/.295/.550 slash line through 281 plate appearances.
Jul 4 2022Buxton went 1-for-5 with a two-run home run in Monday's 6-3 extra-inning win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton gave the Twins their first lead of the game with a fifth-inning blast. He also made a big contribution on defense, making a catch at the wall and firing a throw to Gio Urshela as part of a triple play to cut down a White Sox rally in the seventh. With three homers in his last six games, Buxton is still showing power, but he's gone only 4-for-23 (.174) in that span. The outfielder has 22 homers, 40 RBI, 46 runs scored, one stolen base and a .226/.301/.574 slash line through 256 plate appearances.
Jul 3 2022Buxton is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton started each of the Twins' last three games, twice as the designated hitter. He's been bothered by a sore knee, and it's very possible this absence is for maintenance. Gilberto Celestino will be the center fielder and No. 9 hitter against right-hander Tyler Wells.
Jun 29 2022Buxton isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton started in four of the last five games and went 6-for-18 with a homer, two triples, a double, five runs and three RBI during that time. He'll get a breather while Gilberto Celestino starts in center field and bats ninth.
Jun 28 2022Buxton went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and a second run scored in a 6-0 win over the Guardians during the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After striking out as a pinch hitter in the matinee, Buxton was back in center field and his usual leadoff spot for the nightcap. The 28-year-old superstar took Anthony Castro deep in the ninth inning to wrap up the scoring for the Twins, giving Buxton nine homers in June and 20 for the year -- and establishing a new career high in the process. He's also batting .297 (22-for-74) on the month, raising his slash line on the season to .236/.315/.585.
Jun 27 2022Buxton went 3-for-3 with a double, a triple, an RBI and three runs scored in Sunday's victory over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All Buxton needed for the cycle was a home run, but he still contributed several runs to the Twins' win Sunday. He scored on a Max Kepler single in the first inning and a double in the seventh, as well as Carlos Correa sac fly in the second. After struggling to a .169 batting average in May, the outfielder has been in MVP form in June, slashing .308/.400/.800. Sunday's three-hit performance brought his season batting average up to .238.
Jun 25 2022Buxton (knee) is starting in center field and batting second Saturday against the Rockies, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was held out of the lineup the past three games due to chronic tendinitis in his right knee, but he appeared as pinch hitter Friday and will rejoin the starting nine Saturday. The fact the 28-year-old will immediately play center field rather than be limited to serving as the designated hitter is an encouraging sign for his availability going forward.
Jun 24 2022Buxton (knee) struck out as a pinch hitter in Friday's loss to Colorado. Buxton missed the two prior games due to "a severe chronic case of tendinitis which leads to severe swelling," manager Rocco Baldelli told the St. Paul Pioneer Press. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton could return to center field and the lineup Saturday, but the team will see how his knee feels during pregame warmups.
Jun 23 2022Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said he's hopeful that Buxton (knee) will be ready to rejoin the lineup against the Rockies on Friday or Saturday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is out of the lineup for Thursday's series finale with the Guardians, marking his second absence in a row on account of his sore right knee. Baldelli clarified that Buxton is in a similar spot health-wise as he was a day earlier, with the skipper noting that the star outfielder is not yet able to comfortably swing a bat and run. The Twins believe that Buxton may need only another day or two of rest to move past the knee issue, but the 28-year-old's sketchy track record on the health front means that fantasy managers can't take it as a guarantee he'll be ready to go by the weekend.
Jun 22 2022Buxton did not play in Wednesday's loss to Cleveland due to knee soreness, Darren Wolfson of Channel 5 Saint Paul reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Wolfson reports Buxton's knee flared up and has been an issue for a while. Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said after the game the center fielder wanted to play Wednesday but couldn't move around well enough to be available, according to Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com. It's not yet clear if Buxton will be able to take the field for Thursday's series finale against the Guardians.
Jun 18 2022Buxton will sit Saturday against Arizona, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has avoided the injured list all season, though it's taken frequent rests for that to happen. He'll sit here after starting five consecutive games, the second-longest run of starts he's had all year. Nick Gordon (hamstring) will get the start in center field.
Jun 17 2022Buxton went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and a double in Friday's 7-2 loss to the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hit the second pitch of the game to deep left for a leadoff home run. His power has been on full display in June, as he's hit eight of his 19 homers this season in his last 13 contests. He's been a little boom or bust lately, with five multi-hit efforts and three 0-fers in his last eight starts. The outfielder is now slashing .231/.311/.586 with 33 RBI, 38 runs scored, a stolen base and nine doubles in 209 plate appearances.
Jun 14 2022Buxton went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run and an additional run scored in Monday's 3-2 win over the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had a hand in all three of Minnesota's runs in the victory, swatting a two-run homer to right field in the first inning and scoring the decisive run in the seventh. The 28-year-old is enjoying a big June thus far, slashing .351/.429/.973 with seven homers, 11 RBI and 11 runs across 10 games. Buxton's 18 homers on the season trail only Aaron Judge's 24.
Jun 11 2022Buxton is not in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Rays, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton walloped a whopping five home runs over his last three games, but he will get a chance to get off his feet Saturday. Gilberto Celestino will get the start in center field, and Gary Sanchez will serve as the Twins' designated hitter.
Jun 9 2022Buxton went 2-for-4 with a pair of home runs, four total RBI and a walk in Thursday's loss to the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Both of Buxton's homers came off Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, as he got to the right-hander for a solo shot in the first inning and a three-run blast in the second. After a 14-game stretch without a long ball from mid-May to early June, Buxton has gone deep four times in his past five games. He's tied with five others players for fifth in the league this season with 15 home runs.
Jun 8 2022Buxton went 2-for-4 with a solo home run, a walk and two runs in Wednesday's win over the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton singled and scored in the bottom of the fourth frame before launching a solo shot off Nestor Cortes in the following inning. The homer was his 13th of the season and second in his last four contests. The outfielder has notched at least one hit in nine of his last 11 contests, raising his average from .202 to .224 over that stretch while adding two homers, three RBI and six runs. After a very difficult first two months at the plate, Buxton could be turning a corner as the calendar has shifted to June.
Jun 5 2022Buxton is not in Sunday's lineup against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He continues to get strategic rest days once or twice per week. Buxton went through a frigid stretch at the dish in the middle of May, but he is hitting .300 with one home run over his last five games. Gilberto Celestino will start in center field and bat seventh.
Jun 1 2022Buxton isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton started in both games during Tuesday's doubleheader, and he went 2-for-9 with a run and two strikeouts. He'll get a breather while Nick Gordon starts in center field and bats ninth.
May 30 2022Buxton is not in the starting lineup for Monday's game versus the Tigers, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will get a breather after starting two straight games, going 2-for-8 with a double and a run scored. Nick Gordon is starting in center field and batting eighth in the contest.
May 27 2022Buxton isn't starting Friday against the Royals, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has gone just 1-for-18 with five strikeouts over the last four games, and he'll get a breather Friday as the Twins continue to give him sporadic days off to preserve his long-term health. Nick Gordon will start in center field and bat eighth.
May 22 2022Buxton is not in the lineup for Sunday's game at Kansas City, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton started the past three games and will take a seat Sunday after going 0-for-11 with four walks, an RBI and four runs during that stretch. Gilberto Celestino will man center field and bat ninth in his absence.
May 17 2022Buxton is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reported Sunday that Buxton is continuing to a manage knee issues, and while he was able to play all nine innings of Monday's 3-1 win, the outfielder will get some maintenance for the second game of the series. Provided he isn't dealing with any sort of setback with either of his knees coming out of Monday's start, Buxton should be back in the lineup for Wednesday's series finale.
May 15 2022Buxton, who is leading off and starting in center field Sunday against the Guardians, is playing through a knee issue, and the Twins will be measured with his usage until it's healed, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The team feels it can manage the issue without pushing him too hard and risking a longer absence. Buxton is the Twins' most valuable position player, so having him on a part-time basis is better than not having him at all, but there is still some risk that he aggravates the issue and they are forced to shut him down at some point.
May 14 2022Buxton isn't starting Saturday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will get a breather after going 1-for-9 with a homer, two runs, two walks and two strikeouts over the last three games. Gilberto Celestino will take his place in center field and bat eighth.
May 11 2022Buxton (hip) will be in the lineup Wednesday against the Astros, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins have yet to release their full lineup Wednesday, but Buxton will be included after sitting out the past couple games since suffering a low-level hip strain Saturday. The 28-year-old continues to crush when available this season with nine home runs and a .278/.342/.722 slash line over 19 games.
May 10 2022Buxton (hip) remains on the bench for Tuesday's game against the Astros, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was considered day-to-day after leaving Saturday's game against Oakland with what the Twins called a "low-level right hip strain," but he's still sidelined even after Monday's off day. He'll continue to avoid the injured list for now, though it's hard to feel confident in his health given his lengthy injury history. Gilberto Celestino will start in center field.
May 8 2022Buxton won't start in Sunday's game against the Athletics while he tends to what the Twins have called a "low-level right hip strain," Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is considered day-to-day, but on a fortunate note, the injury isn't related to the previous hip issues that have dogged the 28-year-old in past years. Though fantasy managers could have some justified skepticism about Buxton's chances of avoiding a trip to the IL, the Twins have emphasized that his injury is mild and isn't anything that will result in a prolonged shutdown. The team is hopeful that after Monday's team off day, Buxton will be back in the lineup for Tuesday's series opener with the Astros.
May 7 2022Buxton was removed from Saturday's win over the Athletics due to right hip tightness, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts to begin Saturday's matchup, but he was replaced defensively to begin the eighth inning. While the Twins didn't initially provide a reason for Buxton's departure, manager Rocco Baldelli revealed after the game that the 28-year-old is dealing with a hip injury. The severity of the issue isn't yet clear, but Gilberto Celestino and Nick Gordon should see increased at-bats if Buxton is forced to miss any additional time.
May 5 2022Buxton went 1-for-5 with a home run and three RBI in a 5-3 loss Thursday in Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton drove in all of Minnesota's runs Thursday with an RBI groundout in the third and a two-out, two-run homer in the fifth. The slugger has five home runs in his last nine appearances and has an incredible .716 SLG on the season. Over his last 162 games, dating back to May 19, 2019, he has hit 46 home runs. When healthy, he's proven he's one of the best power bats in all of baseball.
May 4 2022Buxton isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will get a breather after he went 5-for-14 with a home run, a double, four runs and two RBI over the last three games. Gilberto Celestino will start in center field and bat ninth.
May 2 2022Buxton went 1-for-4 with a run scored in Monday's 2-1 win over Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton singled and scored the go-ahead run on a Carlos Correa base hit in the sixth inning. The outfielder also struck out three times, giving him 21 punchouts with just two walks on the year. Still, he's slashing .281/.339/.719 through 62 plate appearances.
May 1 2022Buxton went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and an additional run scored during Sunday's 9-3 win at Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 28-year-old was scratched from Saturday's lineup due to a right hand contusion but returned to the starting nine Sunday and busted out of an 0-for-11 slump. Buxton has a .283/.345/.755 slash line with seven home runs, four doubles, 12 RBI and 13 runs in 58 plate appearances in 2022.
Apr 30 2022Buxton was a late scratch from Saturday's lineup against the Rays due to a right hand contusion, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was hit by a pitch on his right hand Saturday, and he'll be removed from the lineup as a precautionary measure. However, he's available off the bench, so it's unlikely the 28-year-old will miss much time. Gilberto Celestino will shift to center field while Trevor Larnach enters the lineup in right.
Apr 24 2022Buxton went 2-for-5 with two home runs and five RBI in Sunday's 6-4 win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton drove an opposite-field shot in the seventh inning off Aaron Bummer and later hammed a monster 469-foot shot off Liam Hendricks to end the game in the 10th. The 28-year-old continues to show that he's one of the league's most dangerous hitters when he's healthy; he went 6-for-9 with three homers, a double, five runs and seven RBI over the weekend. Buxton is sporting a .351/.415/.946 slash line with 11 RBI and six long balls through 40 plate appearances.
Apr 22 2022Buxton isn't starting Friday against the White Sox, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton returned to the lineup Thursday against the Royals and went 1-for-4. He'll get a day off Friday while Nick Gordon starts in center field and bats eighth.
Apr 21 2022Buxton (knee) is starting at designated hitter and leading off Thursday against the Royals, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was a relatively quick return for Buxton, who left last Friday's game with a knee injury that did not involve structural damage. The Twins slotting him in at DH is not surprising, and it's unclear when he will be ready to return to center field.
Apr 20 2022Buxton (knee) isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hasn't played since exiting Friday's game against Boston with right knee soreness, but the Twins have remained optimistic about his health. Gilberto Celestino will start in center field and bat ninth Wednesday.
Apr 19 2022Buxton (knee) remains out of the lineup Tuesday against the Royals, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hasn't played since leaving Friday's game against the Red Sox with right knee soreness. Initial estimates were that he'd miss about a week, and the fact that he's yet to be placed on the injured list suggests he's still on that schedule. Nick Gordon will be the center fielder Tuesday.
Apr 18 2022Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said that Buxton is "optimistic" about how he's progressed since suffering a right knee injury in Friday's 8-4 win over the Red Sox, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. "He's very optimistic about how he's feeling right now," Baldelli said of Buxton, who remains out of the lineup for Monday's series finale in Boston. "I think we're going to get to the point in the next day or two where we're talking about a specific plan for getting him back out there." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will miss his third straight game Monday and seems unlikely to be available for Tuesday's series opener in Kansas City, but the Twins appear to be encouraged that his absence won't extend much longer beyond that. A recent MRI already ruled out any structural damage to his knee, so at this stage, Buxton may just need some extra time for the pain and soreness to subside. Nick Gordon picked up the first two starts in center field sans Buxton, but Gilberto Celestino receive the starting nod Monday while Gordon heads back to the bench.
Apr 17 2022Buxton (knee) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the right knee injury Buxton sustained in Friday's series opener will likely keep the outfielder out for around a week, the Twins have thus far resisted moving the 28-year-old to the injured list. Buxton will remain out Sunday and isn't expected to play in Monday's series finale either, but the Twins plan to have him travel to Kansas City for the team's upcoming series that runs Tuesday through Thursday. Buxton sounds like he could be ready to return to the lineup at some point during the series with the Royals, provided he incurs no setbacks in his recovery from the knee issue. Nick Gordon will spell Buxton in center field Sunday.
Apr 16 2022Buxton (knee) will travel with the Twins during their upcoming road trip to Kansas City, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent an MRI that didn't reveal any structural damage in his right knee, but he was expected to miss about a week due to the issue. However, manager Rocco Baldelli didn't rule out the possibility of Buxton playing sometime during Minnesota's upcoming series against the Royals, which runs from Tuesday to Thursday. Early reports on the 28-year-old's status have certainly been encouraging, but Gilberto Celestino and Nick Gordon should see increased playing time in Buxton's absence.
Apr 15 2022Buxton and the Twins are waiting on the results of an MRI on his sore right knee, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is already dealing with his first injury of the season after hurting his right knee while sliding into second base in the first inning of Friday's game against the Red Sox. For now, he's only been diagnosed with knee soreness, but it's possible the MRI reveals a more significant issue.
Apr 11 2022Buxton went 2-for-3 with two doubles, two runs, a walk and a stolen base in Monday's win over Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton once again worked as a catalyst atop Minnesota's lineup, scoring the team's first two runs and knocking his first two doubles of the campaign. The talented outfielder also swiped his first base of the season and worked his first walk. Buxton now has five hits on the campaign, each of which has gone for extra bases (three homers, two doubles). His 1.067 slugging percentage ranks second in the majors in the early going.
Apr 10 2022Buxton went 2-for-5 with two home runs in Sunday's win over Seattle. He's 3-for-13 with three home runs in three games this season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hit a home run in three consecutive at-bats over two games. Buxton tore up Grapefruit League pitching with a remarkable .469/.514/1.094 batting line and hasn't slowed down since. He has a 1.308 OPS through three games.
Apr 9 2022Buxton went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run and was hit by a pitch in Saturday's 4-3 loss against Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton gave the Twins the lead with his eighth-inning blast off Andres Munoz. After signing a seven-year, $100 million extension in the offseason, Buxton tore up Grapefruit League pitching with a remarkable .469/.514/1.094 batting line. The 28-year-old had a career-high 19 home runs in only 61 games in 2021 and, if healthy, should continue to provide significant power at the top of the Minnesota lineup.
Mar 17 2022Buxton went 1-for-2 with a single and stolen base in his spring training debut in Thursday's loss to Boston. "My legs feel good, my hips feel good, I feel good. Nothing holding me back now," he told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton hit .306 with 16 home runs, a .647 SLG and a 1.005 OPS last season, but played in just 61 games due to multiple injuries. He's played over 100 games just once in his career, so it's encouraging he's at full strength as spring training begins. Buxton worked with a nutritionist in the offseason to develop a diet that will try to keep inflammation down to help prevent injuries, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Nov 28 2021The Twins signed Buxton to a seven-year, $100 million contract extension Sunday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The contract includes a full no-trade clause. Injuries have plagued Buxton throughout his career, but he's proven to be an immensely impactful player both offensively and defensively when available. At about $14 million per year, the contract will be a bargain for Minnesota if the center fielder manages to stay healthy. Despite being limited to 61 games in 2021, Buxton hit 19 home runs and stole nine bases while slashing .306/.358/.647 in 254 plate appearances.
Oct 3 2021Buxton went 2-for-4 with a two-run homer, a double and two runs in Sunday's 7-3 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton's hot streak continued Sunday, as he closed out the season with extra-base hits in each of the final four games of the year. During that time, he went 9-for-19 with three home runs, five doubles, eight runs and four RBI. The 27-year-old missed significant time due to injuries in 2021 but slashed .306/.358/.647 with 19 homers, 50 runs, 32 RBI and nine stolen bases across 61 appearances.
Oct 1 2021Buxton went 3-for-5 with two doubles and two runs scored in Friday's 11-6 loss to Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton doubled and scored in both the fourth and sixth innings Friday. Over the last 10 games, the 27-year-old outfielder has gone 15-for-35 (.429) with nine extra-base hits and 13 runs scored. He boosted his season slash line to .305/.359/.637 with 47 runs scored and 39 extra-base hits through 245 plate appearances.
Sep 29 2021Buxton went 1-for-3 with two runs scored and a stolen base Wednesday against the Tigers. He also reached after being hit by a pitch. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton singled in the first inning and came around to score on Jorge Polanco's three-run homer. He reached base again in the eighth after being plunked by Detroit reliever Joe Jimenez, then he stole second base and scored on Max Kepler's single. Buxton has swiped a bag in three of his last four games, giving him nine thefts in 10 attempts this season. He's hitting .292 with a .946 OPS in 235 plate appearances on the year.
Sep 27 2021Buxton went 1-for-3 with a solo home run and a walk in Sunday's 5-2 loss to the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins struggled to generate a ton of offense but Buxton at least got his bat going with a solo shot to center field in the fifth. It was the second home run hit in the last three games for him and his sixth overall this month. The 27-year-old has shown some solid power throughout September but has struggled overall at the plate. In 28 games since returning from the injured list, Buxton is slashing .215/.282/.449 with 13 extra-base hits, nine RBI, 18 runs scored, two steals and 8:31 BB:K.
Sep 25 2021Buxton went 0-for-3 with a walk and a stolen base in Saturday's 6-1 loss to Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The outfielder walked and stole second in the fifth inning, but he was left stranded. Buxton is 7-for-8 in stolen base attempts this year. While his seven-game hitting streak ended Saturday, the 27-year-old has gotten on base in nine straight contests. He owns a .290/.341/.594 slash line with 15 home runs, 27 RBI, 38 runs scored and 18 doubles through 54 games in another injury-plagued season.
Sep 24 2021Buxton went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run and a walk in a 3-1 victory over Toronto on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton took Jose Berrios deep to center field in the third inning for a two-run homer that proved to be the difference in the contest. The long ball extended his hitting streak to seven games, during which he is batting .346 (9-for-26) with five extra-base hits. Buxton is slashing .294/.342/.603 with 15 homers, 27 RBI and six stolen bases through 219 plate appearances on the season.
Sep 23 2021Buxton (foot) is starting Thursday's game against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was held out of Wednesday's lineup due to a foot injury, but he went 1-for-1 with a double off the bench. He'll start in center field and lead off in Thursday's series opener against the Blue Jays.
Sep 22 2021Buxton is out of the lineup Wednesday against the Cubs due to a foot injury, though he's available to pinch hit off the bench, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton went 2-for-5 with two runs and a stolen base during Tuesday's contest, but he was also hit by a pitch in the foot that will sidelined him for at least one game. He should be considered day-to-day while Nick Gordan mans center field for the Twins.
Sep 13 2021Buxton went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and a walk in the loss to the Yankees on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The outfielder launched a homer off of Luis Gil in the third inning and then notched a single in the fifth. It was his third consecutive multi-hit game and his fifth in his last eight contests. Buxton has gone deep four times in seven games, raising his season total to 14.
Sep 11 2021Buxton went 2-for-5 with a solo home run in Saturday's 9-2 win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton got the Twins off and running in the first inning when he connected for a solo homer off Kansas City starter Brady Singer, the first of five long balls allowed by Singer. It was the second homer in as many games for Buxton, who also singled for his third multi-hit effort in the last six contests. The 27-year-old is hitting .290 with 13 homers, five steals and a .938 OPS over 171 plate appearances in what's been another injury-plagued season.
Sep 10 2021Buxton went 1-for-5 with a solo home run in Friday's 6-4 loss to the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton led off the first inning with a home run off Daniel Lynch. He failed to reach base in his other four plate appearances. He is struggling since coming off the 10-day injured list on Aug. 27, batting just .130 in 13 games. On the season, he is slashing .287/.325/.599 with 12 long balls, 22 RBI, 27 runs and five steals in 166 plate appearances. Buxton has shown he has elite talent over the last few years; however, he cannot stay healthy and he hasn't played more than 87 games in a season since 2017.
Sep 9 2021Buxton isn't starting Thursday's game against Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will get a breather after he went 0-for-9 with an RBI and four strikeouts across the last two games. Nick Gordon will take over in center field and bat seventh.
Sep 6 2021Buxton went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and an additional run scored in Monday's 5-2 win over Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The outfielder has been quiet since returning from a broken finger, but he's now posted consecutive multi-hit efforts. Buxton's fifth-inning homer was also his first long ball since he was activated from the injured list. He's slashing a strong .308/.349/.629 with 11 homers, 20 RBI, 26 runs scored and five stolen bases through 152 plate appearances, but the question with Buxton has often been one of health, not talent. Injuries have limited him to just 37 games this season.
Aug 27 2021Buxton (finger) was activated off the injured list Friday and will be in the lineup against the Brewers, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton wound up missing over two months with a broken finger, an injury he suffered just three games into his return from a hip strain. While the center fielder's constant battle with injuries continue to sabotage his fantasy value, he's performed at a career-best level when available, hitting an incredible .369/.409/.767 with 10 homers and five steals in 27 games. He should be a very useful piece for both the Twins and fantasy teams for as long as he can remain on the field.
Aug 26 2021Buxton will join the Twins from his rehab assignment on Friday, but it's not clear if he'll be activated from the injured list or play since he has experienced some minor residual "sensations" near the now-healed fracture in his left hand, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will join the team in pre-game warmups and the Twins will decide the next course of action. It's possible he'll be in Friday's lineup or the team could chose to have him work out for another day or two.
Aug 24 2021Manager Rocco Baldelli said Tuesday that Buxton (finger) will play in "at least a couple more games" at Triple-A St. Paul before being activated from the injured list, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is 1-for-5 with a home run and two RBI through two games with the Saints and is expected to play a full nine innings Tuesday. The 27-year-old is also slated to play a full game Wednesday as he ramps up the rehab assignment, and he could rejoin the Twins for this weekend's three-game series against the Brewers.
Aug 22 2021Buxton (finger) went 1-for-3 with a home run Sunday for Triple-A St. Paul. It was second game with St. Paul during a rehab assignment. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not clear how long Buxton will be at Triple-A before he's activated from the injured list. It's possible he could be activated early this week.
Aug 20 2021Buxton (finger) played five innings Friday in center field and went 0-for-2 with a strikeout for Triple-A St. Paul in his first game of a rehabilitation assignment. He will play again possibly Saturday and Sunday depending on how he feels, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not clear how long Buxton will be playing in Triple-A before he's activated from the injured list. He'll likely play two or three games before the Twins decide a next course of action, but it's possible he could be activated early next week.
Aug 19 2021Buxton (finger) will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A St. Paul on Friday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton took live batting practice Thursday and apparently felt good afterward since he'll now return to game action with the Triple-A club. The 27-year-old will play seven innings in center field during his first rehab game Friday and could be in the mix to rejoin the Twins as early as next week.
Aug 18 2021Buxton (finger) will take part in live batting practice at the Twins' Triple-A affiliate in St. Paul on Thursday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The BP session likely represents a final gauge of how Buxton has fared in his recovery from a fractured left pinkie finger before the Twins send him out on a minor-league rehab assignment. Assuming Buxton feels fine from a conditioning standpoint following a nearly two-month layoff from game action, he may only need a few games in the minors to get his timing back at the plate. While Buxton has been on the shelf, the Twins have been taking a committee approach to center field rather than leaning heavily on one starter, with all of Jake Cave, Max Kepler, Nick Gordon, Rob Refsnyder and Gilberto Celestino picking up reps at the position.
Aug 14 2021Buxton (hand) could begin a rehab assignment next week, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is away from the team for the weekend to attend to a family matter but will return for a workout Monday, at which point the team will how to proceed with his recovery. He's been out of action since late June with a broken hand, so he'll likely need more than merely a game or two on his rehab assignment before he's cleared to return.
Aug 9 2021Buxton (hand) fielded flyballs, hit and ran the bases prior to Monday's game against the White Sox, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been out with a broken hand since late June. He still doesn't have a clear timetable for his return, and the Twins have little incentive to rush him given their place in the standings, but he's clearly trending in the right direction. The length of his absence means he'll likely need a rehab assignment before returning to the roster.
Jul 31 2021Buxton (hand) has resumed lightly swinging the bat with some tee work, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been on the injured list with a broken hand since June 22, but he had been limited to lower-body activity and conditioning work recently. His ability to grip a bat again represents a significant step in his recovery, and a better idea of his return timetable could be revealed once he ramps up his activity level. However, the 27-year-old could require a rehab stint before he's cleared to return, so he could still be several weeks away from rejoining the Twins.
Jul 18 2021Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Sunday that Buxton has been taking part in lower-body activity and conditioning work, but the outfielder isn't yet performing drills with his fractured left hand, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "The gripping and the starting to do things baseball activity-wise with his hand has not really taken off yet, but we weren't expecting it to," Baldelli said of Buxton. "It's still a little ways away." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baldelli's comments don't offer much optimism that Buxton will be back before the end of the month, but the 27-year-old at least appears set to avoid surgery on the injured hand. Buxton will likely need to receive the green light from a doctor before he takes part in defensive drills and batting practice.
Jun 24 2021Buxton will not need surgery to repair his fractured left hand. "He was going to have his images reviewed by Dr. (Chris Camp), and then we can kind of go from there," manager Rocco Baldelli told the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "I don't think he's going to need any procedures to help correct it in any way." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was hit by a pitch Monday and sustained a broken bone in the fifth metacarpal on his left hand. There's no clear timetable for his return, but he's likely sidelined until August, if not longer.
Jun 22 2021Manager Rocco Baldelli said that the Twins have yet to determine whether Buxton will need surgery to address the fractured left hand he sustained in Monday's win over the Reds, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "I think we're actually looking into the best approaches for recovery," Baldelli said of Buxton, who was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday. "Like with any fracture, I think you have to ask those questions." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins are expected to gain more clarity on the extent of Buxton's injury once he undergoes further testing in the coming days. If surgery is ultimately deemed necessary, Buxton would be in store for a longer absence, though he'll still likely miss multiple weeks even if he's able to treat the injury through rest and rehab. Minnesota recalled Gilberto Celestino from Triple-A St. Paul in a corresponding move, and he should get the chance to pick up starts in center field while Buxton is on the shelf. Nick Gordon and Max Kepler are other options at the position, and Rob Refsnyder (hamstring) should also factor into the mix in center if he's able to make a speedy return from the IL.
Jun 21 2021X-rays revealed Buxton has a fracture in his left hand, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was hit by a pitch in Monday's game and suffered a boxer's fracture, breaking a bone in the fifth metacarpal/pinky area. He'll likely be sidelined several weeks at a minimum.
Jun 20 2021Buxton went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run and a double in Sunday's 4-2 win over Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his second game back from a hip injury, the center fielder reached double-digits in homers for the year. He's gone 3-for-9 since he was activated from the injured list. Buxton started the year hot and looks ready to resume his strong work at the dish. He's slashing .371/.408/.794 with 10 long balls, 19 RBI, 21 runs scored and five stolen bases across 107 plate appearances.
Jun 19 2021Buxton (hip) was activated by the Twins on Saturday and will bat second against the Rangers, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was an early MVP favorite at the start of the year, hitting .370/.408/.772 with nine homers and five steals through his first 24 games. However, the persistent injury problems that have plagued his career refused to go away, as he was shut down with a hip strain in early May. There's little reason to have much confidence in his health going forward, but he'll be a huge help to fantasy teams and the Twins if he can come close to replicating his early-season success for as long as he can remain on the field.
Jun 16 2021Buxton (hip) will be activated when he can achieve his typical sprint speed, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton won't play until "he's able to sprint like he can sprint." The skipper also mentioned the possibility of Buxton playing more rehab games.
Jun 15 2021Buxton (hip) did more running in a pregame workout Tuesday, manager Rocco Baldelli told MLB.com. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton wasn't activated from the injured list Monday due to "residual soreness" in his hip, but traveled with the team and went through pregame workouts the past two days. It's not clear when he'll be activated from the injured list. He was 5-for-9 with two home runs during a three-game rehab stint with Triple-A St. Paul last weekend.
Jun 14 2021Buxton wasn't activated from the injured list Monday due to "residual soreness" in his hip, manager Rocco Baldelli told the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Buxton flew to Seattle with the Twins and will go through a workout Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baldelli said that Buxton refrained from running at full speed during his three-game rehab stint with Triple-A St. Paul where he was 5-for-9 with two home runs. It sounds like he could be activated in the next day or two, but the Twins may play it safe with his return.
Jun 13 2021Manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton (hip) will travel with the team Monday for the start of the Twins' three-game series in Seattle, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baldelli didn't explicitly say when Buxton will be activated from the 10-day injured list, but this update points toward the outfielder being reinstated as soon as Monday. Buxton has been out since May 6 with a Grade 2 hip strain and has appeared in three rehab games for Triple-A St. Paul, going 5-for-10 with two home runs, a double and a triple.
Jun 11 2021Buxton (hip) will go through a workout at Target Field on Friday and rejoin Triple-A St. Paul for his rehab assignment Saturday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old has appeared in two games with St. Paul and will play a third after going through the workout. If all goes well, Buxton could rejoin the active roster for Sunday's series finale with Houston, or he could be activated during the three-game set at Seattle, which begins Monday.
Jun 9 2021Buxton (hip) will not play with Triple-A St. Paul on Wednesday following a rain delay, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Concerns over wet field conditions convinced Buxton to delay his appearance until Thursday. This will also likely delay his activation by one day, as it's his desire for more rehab at-bats that is the primary reason for the delay in his removal from the injured list.
Jun 7 2021Buxton (hip) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old recently resumed running at 100 with no issues, clearing the way for him to begin the final stage of his rehab program. Buxton has been on the shelf with a strained right hip for the past month, but he could be reinstated from the injured list for the upcoming weekend series against the Astros, which starts Friday, if all goes well during the rehab assignment.
Jun 6 2021Manager Rocco Baldelli said Sunday that Buxton (hip) is in line to begin a rehab assignment within the next week, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Dan Hayes of The Athletic, Buxton recently resumed running at 100 percent without incident, so he appears ready to move on to the final phase of his rehab program for the hip strain that has sidelined him since May 6. Assuming he's able to begin that rehab assignment within the next few days, the outfielder could rejoin the Minnesota lineup as soon as the upcoming weekend.
Jun 1 2021Buxton (hip) has been sprinting while running the bases recently, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had recently dealt with issues decelerating, but it's encouraging to see him ramping up his intensity recently. His running Tuesday went well, but the team wants to see how he responds in the near future. If all goes well, the 27-year-old could be nearing a rehab assignment.
May 26 2021Buxton (hip) is still having trouble decelerating and is unlikely to begin a rehab assignment immediately, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been swinging in the cage to begin the week, and there was hope that he could begin a rehab assignment by the end of the week. However, the center fielder will need some more time to recover since he's still not able to run without issues. Rob Refsnyder should continue to see increased work in center field while Buxton is unavailable.
May 24 2021Buxton (hip) has been swinging in the cage for the past few days and could begin a rehab assignment by the end of the week if he's able to run without issues, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was one of the best players in the entire league through his first 24 games, hitting .370 with nine homers and five steals. His persistent injury problems aren't going away, however, as he hit the injured list with a strained hip in early May. The Twins have yet to specify an exact timeline for his return, but if he does indeed begin a rehab assignment by the end of the week, he could be back with the team sometime in the first few days of June.
May 18 2021Buxton (hip) did some light baseball activities Monday but hasn't started running, MLB.com reports. "We're talking about someone that needs to be able to run, and run the way he can, when he returns," manager Rocco Baldelli said. "Again, he's not at that point yet. We're still building him up to the point where he can actually test it out." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old was ruled out multiple weeks after landing on the injured list with a Grade 2 hip strain suffered on May 6. It sounds like he's still far away from starting a rehab assignment.
May 12 2021Buxton (hip) has been cleared to throw and is expected to begin hitting in the batting cage Thursday or Friday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old was ruled out multiple weeks after landing on the injured list with a Grade 2 hip strain Friday, so it's good to see him working his way back into baseball activities. Buxton can safely be considered out indefinitely until he progresses further into his rehab work.
May 7 2021Buxton was placed on the 10-day IL with a Grade 2 hip strain and will be out for multiple weeks, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An MRI revealed the hip strain after the center fielder left Thursday's loss to the Rangers, and per manager Rocco Baldelli, his absence will extend beyond the minimum 10 days. Buxton was having an MVP-caliber campaign, hitting .370 with nine home runs, five stolen bases and a 1.180 OPS in 24 games.
May 6 2021Buxton was diagnosed with a hip strain after leaving Thursday's loss to the Rangers, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton is considered day-to-day following his diagnosis. He appeared to suffer the injury while running out a potential infield hit in the bottom of the ninth inning and was unable to play in the 10th inning. Prior to his departure, Buxton went 1-for-5 with a run and a strikeout. If Buxton is held out for Friday's series opener against the Tigers, Jake Cave or Max Kepler could take over in center field.
May 4 2021Buxton went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in Tuesday's loss to the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was responsible for two of the team's three runs when he socked his ninth homer of the season -- it came on his first at-bat and against Kyle Gibson, who would end up pitching eight strong innings. The center fielder has been nothing short of stellar to begin the season and is making an early MVP case with strong numbers across the board -- he has nine homers, 17 RBI, 18 runs scored and four stolen bases while hitting .386 with an impressive 1.246 OPS.
May 1 2021Buxton went 1-for-4 with a walk, a stolen base and a run scored in Friday's 9-1 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton knocked a single in his first at-bat and promptly stole second for his third stolen base of the year. The 27-year-old also made a couple of highlight-reel catches in center field, robbing Andrew Benintendi of two hits and robbing the Royals of putting some more runs on the board. Buxton is making an early MVP case after the first month. He's slashing .426/.466/.897 with eight home runs, 14 RBI and 15 runs scored. He's also one of the faster players in the league, so more steals should come and if he can stay healthy, Buxton could have the chance to be one of the top-performing fantasy players this season.
Apr 28 2021Buxton went 5-for-5 with a solo home run, two doubles a stolen base and an additional run scored during Wednesday's 10-2 win at Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old matched Cleveland's hit total by himself and has now homered in back-to-back contests. Buxton is playing like one of the best players in baseball to open 2021 with a .438/.471/.938 slash line, eight homers, eight doubles, two stolen bases, 14 RBI and 14 runs through 17 games.
Apr 27 2021Buxton went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and an additional run scored during Tuesday's 7-4 loss to Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old missed Monday's contest while dealing with patellar tendinitis, but he played like himself Tuesday as he went deep for the seventh time this season. In addition to the home runs, Buxton has a .390/.429/.847 slash line with six doubles, 13 RBI, and 12 runs through 16 games in 2021.
Apr 26 2021Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton is being held out of the lineup for Monday's game in Cleveland due to a sore knee stemming from lingering patellar tendinitis, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Baldelli, Buxton has been experiencing tendinitis throughout the season, but it hasn't hindered him from a performance standpoint in what's been a tremendous start to the season. Per Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic, Buxton woke up Monday with more soreness than usual in the knee, but Baldelli indicated the outfielder will still be available off the bench for the series opener. The Twins plan to re-evaluate Buxton on Tuesday with the hope that he'll be ready to rejoin the lineup for the second game of the series.
Apr 21 2021Buxton went 3-for-6 with a double, a two-run home run and a second run scored in Wednesday's 13-12 extra-inning loss to the A's. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It looked like Buxton had given the Twins the win when he took Lou Trivino deep in the top of the 10th inning, but Minnesota's infield defense fell apart in the bottom half of the frame. Buxton continues to rake when he's in the lineup, and through 12 games he's hitting .432 (19-for-44) with six homers, one steal, 10 runs and 11 RBI.
Apr 18 2021Buxton and the Twins won't resume playing until at least Tuesday after Monday's series opener in Oakland was postponed due to COVID-19 concerns within the Minnesota organization, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After already having the final two games of their weekend series with the Angels postponed, the Twins will remain off the schedule for a third straight day Monday while more contact tracing continues to be completed. The Twins and Athletics are expected to begin their series with a doubleheader Tuesday, but MLB has yet to announce a formal decision.
Apr 17 2021Buxton (hamstring) is starting Saturday's game against the Angels, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old was diagnosed with a mild hamstring strain Friday after the injury surfaced earlier in the week, but he'll return to the lineup for Saturday's contest. Buxton is 15-for-32 with five homers, five doubles, nine RBI, one stolen base and a nine-game hit streak to begin the season.
Apr 16 2021Buxton has been diagnosed with a mild hamstring strain, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was initially believed to be dealing with hamstring tightness, but the team is now calling it a strain. He's on the bench for a fourth straight contest Friday but will go through a full workout to test his injury.
Apr 15 2021Buxton (hamstring) isn't starting Thursday's game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been dealing with a tight hamstring that also forced him to miss both games of Wednesday's doubleheader against Boston. Jake Cave will start in center field once again Thursday, batting seventh.
Apr 14 2021Buxton was out of the lineup for both games of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Red Sox due to hamstring tightness, Darren Wolfson of KSTP 5 News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The injury wasn't initially reported, but it's not a major surprise to discover the 27-year-old is banged up since he didn't start either contest of the twin bill. The severity of the issue remains unclear, but the Twins are likely to remain cautious with Buxton given his injury history. Jake Cave started both ends of the doubleheader in center field for Minnesota and should see increased playing time until Buxton retakes the field.
Apr 11 2021Buxton went 3-for-4 with a homer and four RBI in Sunday's 8-6 loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton contributed a two-RBI double in the third inning, then took Mariners starter Chris Flexen deep for a two-run homer in the fifth. The 27-year-old Buxton has hit well to start 2021, with five homers, nine RBI, seven runs scored and a stolen base across 30 plate appearances. He has a .481/.548/1.185 slash line while often hitting in the heart of the order.
Apr 8 2021Buxton went 3-for-5 with a solo home run, a double and another run scored during Thursday's victory over Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton extended Minnesota's lead with a solo home run off Marco Gonzales in the fifth inning. He also doubled in the first. The long ball was No. 4 of the year for the 27-year-old outfielder, who is off to a solid start, batting .421 with five RBI.
Apr 7 2021Buxton (illness) will start in center field and bat fifth Wednesday against the Tigers, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Buxton was held out of the starting nine for a second straight day Tuesday while he dealt with an illness, he erased any concern about his health by entering the game in the fifth inning and delivering a solo home run across two at-bats in the Twins' 4-3 loss. Now that he's feeling healthy again, Buxton should be able to play center field on an everyday basis.
Apr 6 2021Buxton (illness) entered Tuesday's game against the Tigers as a defensive replacement in the bottom of the fifth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He is apparently over the bug that kept him out for half of Sunday's game, all of Monday's game and half of Tuesday's contest. He replaces Brent Rooker while Jake Cave slides over to left field.
Apr 5 2021Buxton (illness) is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Rocco Baldelli will give Buxton some additional time to recover after the outfielder exited in the third inning of Sunday's win over Milwaukee with a non-COVID-19-related illness. Assuming Buxton isn't dealing with anything more than a minor bug, he should be ready to rejoin the lineup at some point during the three-game series in Detroit. Jake Cave will cover center field in place of Buxton on Monday.
Apr 4 2021Buxton is dealing with some sort of bug that is not related to COVID-19, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins will keep evaluating him Sunday evening and Monday to determine his availability ahead of next week's series in Detroit. Jake Cave will man center field while Brent Rooker and Kyle Garlick get time in left field if Buxton misses anymore time.
Apr 3 2021Buxton went 1-for-4 with a home run during Saturday's win over the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has gone deep in each of his first two games of the season and while he'll be unable to sustain that pace going forward, the power display has been impressive to start the year. In fact, Buxton only has two hits in seven at-bats this season and both have gone yard. It's certainly a strong start to the season if he wants to surpass his career-best mark of 16 homers set during the 2017 campaign.
Mar 14 2021Buxton (broken tooth) will start in center field and will bat seventh in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will rejoin the Twins' spring lineup for the first time in a week after he was sidelined with a cracked tooth that required a root canal. The brief absence shouldn't prevent him from being ready to fill a full-time role in the outfield for the Twins when Opening Day arrives.
Mar 11 2021Buxton has been out of the lineup since Sunday due to a broken tooth, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton cracked his tooth while eating steak, per Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. He certainly doesn't have the best luck with injuries, though this particular issue probably won't sidetrack his season. He underwent a root canal and had a crown placed on the tooth Wednesday, so he should be able to get back into game action soon.
Feb 24 2021Buxton reported to spring training at 212 pounds, up from 200 to 205 pounds in 2020, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has ranked in the 99th percentile among all players in sprint speed in each of his first six MLB seasons (per Statcast), going 62-for-71 on stolen-base attempts over that span. While the added weight might slow him a bit, it should help him more in terms of durability, which has long been a concern for the 27-year-old. The Twins have largely eschewed the run game in manager Rocco Baldelli's first two years at the helm, and though Buxton ranks as the team's top base-stealing threat, his opportunities to swipe bags could be more limited than his abilities suggest while he typically slots at the bottom of a strong Minnesota lineup. In fact, Buxton may be more of a power than speed play in fantasy these days; he mashed 13 home runs in 135 plate appearances in 2020, with his 9.6 HR/100 PA besting Luke Voit (9.4) for the MLB lead.
Dec 2 2020Buxton signed a one-year, $5.125 million contract with the Twins on Wednesday to avoid arbitration, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old appeared in 39 games during 2020 and showcased his power with 13 home runs, though he also saw his walk rate drop to a minuscule 1.5 percent. The end result was a marginal improvement to an .844 OPS. As always, the question for Buxton is his health, and he missed some time with head and shoulder injuries.
Sep 30 2020Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said that Buxton was excluded from the lineup for Wednesday's Game 2 against the Astros because the outfielder "is not felling 100 percent," Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton missed the Twins' final two regular-season contests after experiencing mild concussion symptoms, but he was cleared to start in center field Tuesday in the team's postseason opener. Though he played all nine innings in Minnesota's 4-1 loss and went 1-for-4 with three strikeouts and a stolen base, Buxton may have gotten banged up somewhere along the way. While Baldelli noted that he couldn't elaborate on the nature of Buxton's condition, the skipper indicated the 26-year-old may still be available off the bench. Alex Kirilloff will pick up his first career start Wednesday in Buxton's stead.
Sep 29 2020Buxton went 1-for-4 with three strikeouts and a stolen base in a Game 1 loss to the Astros in Tuesday's wild-card opener. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was on the receiving end of a scary HBP last Friday, and he ended up sitting the final two days of the regular season while reportedly experiencing mild concussion symptoms. Fortunately, it seems he's fine for the most part, although it's not crazy to think the Twins could try to work Alex Kirilloff into the lineup for Game 2, perhaps at Buxton's expense.
Sep 28 2020Buxton (head) shagged flyballs during Monday's batting practice, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton left Friday's game against the Reds after getting hit in the head by a pitch and was reportedly experiencing mild concussion symptoms. He's yet to be officially cleared for the start of the postseason.
Sep 27 2020Buxton (concussion symptoms) is out of the lineup Sunday against the Reds, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old was hit in the head by a pitch Friday and will miss his second straight game while experiencing mild concussion symptoms. It remains to be seen if Buxton will be cleared for the playoffs in the next couple days. Jake Cave receives the start in center field for the season finale.
Sep 26 2020Buxton is absent from the lineup Saturday against the Reds due to mild concussion symptoms, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton left Friday's game after getting struck in the head by a pitch. He was able to walk off the field under his own power but doesn't appear lucky enough to have avoided a concussion entirely. The Twins are optimistic that he'll return for the start of the playoffs, as his symptoms are mild, but it seems unlikely that he'll return to the lineup for Sunday's season finale. Jake Cave will start in center field in his absence.
Sep 25 2020Buxton was diagnosed with a head contusion following Friday's loss to the Reds, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton left Friday's game immediately after being hit by a pitch in the helmet in the eighth inning. He'll be re-evaluated Saturday to help determine the extent of the issue. If Buxton is sidelined, Jake Cave could fill in as the center fielder.
Sep 20 2020Buxton is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will be receiving a routine maintenance day after starting each of the past six games, during which he went 9-for-24 with four home runs, six RBI, five runs, a double and a walk. Jake Cave will spell Buxton in center field and will bat eighth.
Sep 18 2020Buxton will lead off for the first time since 2016 Friday against the Cubs, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had exclusively hit in the bottom four spots in the order so far this season. He certainly has the speed of a traditional leadoff man, though his .290 career on-base percentage (and his .272 mark this season) make him an odd fit for the role. The move up the order makes some sense given his recent performance, however, as he's hitting .349/.349/.884 over his last 13 games.
Sep 17 2020Buxton went 3-for-4 with two solo home runs in Thursday's 4-3 loss to the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton left the yard in the second and fifth innings, but it wasn't enough offense to lift his team to victory. The centerfielder has put together a modest four-game hitting streak, smacking four home runs to go with five RBI over that stretch. He'll look to stay hot at the dish in Friday's series opener at Wrigley Field.
Sep 16 2020Buxton went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in Wednesday's 5-1 win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton went deep off White Sox starter Lucas Giolito in the fourth inning. The 26-year-old Buxton has surged lately with five homers, eight RBI and six runs scored in his last eight games. He's up to 10 long balls, 22 RBI, 16 runs scored and a stolen base through 33 contests in 2020.
Sep 15 2020Buxton went 2-for-4 with an inside-the-park home run, one RBI and two runs scored Tuesday against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton led off the third inning by scalding a line drive over the head of Luis Robert. Robert went for the catch, but misplayed the ball, in turn allowing Buxton to speed his way around the bases for an inside-the-park home run. Buxton has made things happen at the plate of late, as he now has four home runs in his last seven games -- bringing his total to nine on the campaign. Overall, he's hitting .252/.255/.544 with 15 runs scored and 20 RBI across 106 plate appearances.
Sep 13 2020Buxton is not in Sunday's lineup against Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He is hitting .320 with three home runs in 25 at-bats this month, but surprisingly has not attempted a stolen base over those eight games. LaMonte Wade will start in center field and hit seventh.
Sep 12 2020Buxton went 1-for-3 with a two-run homer against Cleveland on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton took Zach Plesac deep in the fourth inning for his eighth home run of the season. The performance continued his recent power surge, as Buxton now has three long balls in his past four starts, including a pair in the team's weekend series against Cleveland. Despite rarely drawing a walk, Buxton has put together a decent .247/.250/.527 line to go along with 13 runs scored and 19 RBI across 96 plate appearances this season.
Sep 11 2020Buxton went 1-for-3 with a home run, two RBI and a run scored Friday as he helped the Twins to a 3-1 lead over the Indians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton took advantage of a hanging slider from Shane Bieber for a 2-run homer in the second to give the Twins an early 2-0 lead. The speedy outfielder is hitting .244/.247/.500 with seven home runs and 17 RBI across 90 at-bats this season.
Sep 8 2020Buxton isn't in the lineup for Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton went hitless in three at-bats during Tuesday's matinee, and he'll take a seat for the second game. LaMonte Wade will start in center field.
Sep 7 2020Buxton went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and a double in Monday's 6-2 win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton followed his sixth-inning double with his sixth homer two frames later. The performance broke a 10-game drought without an extra-base hit for the center fielder, who is hitting .250/.253/.488 through 87 plate appearances on the season.
Sep 6 2020Buxton is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jake Cave gets the start in center field, batting seventh. Buxton has gone 4-for-12 (all singles) with two strikeouts in four games since returning from a shoulder injury. Overall, Buxton has a .238/.241/.438 slash line with five homers and one stolen base.
Sep 4 2020Buxton is not in the lineup for Game 1 of Friday's doubleheader against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton returned from the injured list Tuesday and went 2-for-4 with one RBI, but he now finds himself on the bench for the second straight contest. Jake Cave will start in center field and bat eighth in Game 1 for Minnesota.
Sep 2 2020Buxton isn't in Wednesday's lineup against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton returned to the lineup Tuesday after spending time on the injured list, but he'll get a routine day off as the Twins ease him back into action. Jake Cave is starting in center field.
Sep 1 2020Buxton (shoulder) was activated off the injured list as expected Tuesday and will bat seventh and play center field against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will wind up missing just shy of two weeks with shoulder inflammation. He'd struggled to a .221/.225/.456 slash line prior to the injury, with that low on-base percentage giving him the opportunity to attempt just two steals in 21 games, but he should nevertheless be the Twins' everyday center fielder going forward.
Aug 31 2020Buxton (shoulder) played in an intrasquad game at the Twins' secondary site Monday and is closing in on his return to action, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A precise timeline for Buxton's return hasn't been given, but manager Rocco Baldelli said he expected the outfielder back "really soon." Buxton was hitting a modest .221/.225/.456 in 71 plate appearances prior to hitting the injured list with an inflamed left shoulder on Aug. 20.
Aug 26 2020The Twins are optimistic that Buxton (shoulder) may be ready to return from the 10-day injured list early next week, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Minnesota has been pleased thus far with how Buxton's inflamed left shoulder has responded to hitting off a tee, so he'll presumably be on track to take swings against live pitching within the next few days in what would likely mark the final hurdle he would need to clear in his rehab process. While Buxton has been sidelined, the Twins have turned center fielder over to LaMonte Wade and Jake Cave.
Aug 25 2020Buxton (shoulder) is feeling much better and has been swinging the bat recently, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was placed on the 10-day injured list with left shoulder inflammation Thursday, but he appears to be progressing nicely in his recovery. While he's making progress, whether he'll be able to return after spending 10 days on the IL remains to be seen. Max Kepler and Jake Cave should continue to see increased playing time while Buxton recovers.
Aug 20 2020Buxton was placed on the 10-day injured list with left shoulder inflammation Thursday, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton had struggled in recent action as he went just 1-for-21 with two RBI and six strikeouts over the past six contests. It's unclear how he suffered the injury, but he'll be sidelined at least 10 days as a result. Max Kepler and Jake Cave should handle the duties in center field while Buxton recovers.
Aug 12 2020Buxton went 3-for-5 with two solo home runs in Wednesday's 12-2 blowout win over the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton's homered in the fifth and sixth innings, giving him five homers in his last seven games. The outfielder has back-to-back three-hit games as well, raising his batting average from .211 to .298 with the recent surge. Buxton has five homers, 10 RBI, nine runs scored and a stolen base in 15 contests this season.
Aug 7 2020Buxton went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Friday's 3-2 loss to the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That's now back-to-back games with a homer for Buxton, and three straight games with an extra-base hit after he went seven games without one to begin the season. Buxton only has one (unsuccessful) steal attempt so far, but his sprint speed remains elite and the stolen bases will come if Buxton can just stay on the field.
Aug 6 2020Buxton went 1-for-4 with a solo home run Thursday against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton only had one hit in the contest, but made it count by slugging his first home run of the season in the fourth inning. After a slow start due to a foot injury and poor performance, Buxton has slowly showed signs of life at the plate and now has at least one hit in three consecutive contests. Despite that, he has an ugly .174/.200/.348 line across his first 25 plate appearances.
Aug 5 2020Buxton is not in the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has struggled at the plate so far this season, grabbing just two hits in 18 at-bats. Jake Cave will serve as the center fielder in his absence.
Jul 29 2020Buxton is not starting Wednesday against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton missed the first three games of the season with a sprained left foot but returned to action Tuesday. There's been no indication that he re-injured his foot in that contest, so it's likely that he's simply not being asked to start on back-to-back days immediately after returning to the lineup. Jake Cave starts in center field in his absence.
Jul 28 2020Buxton went 0-for-3 but scored one run and drove in another in Tuesday's 6-3 win over the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The center fielder was making his 2020 debut after missing the first few games with a foot injury, and Buxton got an opportunity right away to prove he was OK -- after bringing home Luis Arraez in the second inning with a fielder's choice for the Twins' first run of the game, he went first to third on a Max Kepler single and then trotted home on a sac fly by Josh Donaldson. Staying healthy has never been Buxton's strong suit, but after posting a career-high .827 OPS over 87 games last season, the 26-year-old still has a chance to deliver on the upside his speed and athleticism promise.
Jul 24 2020Buxton (foot) could be ready for game action for the Twins' homestand early next week, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton traveled to Chicago on Friday, fueling speculation that he could be available for the team's series against the White Sox. However, Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said Friday that the team hopes he'll be ready when the Twins return home early next week. Although the 26-year-old avoided the injured list to begin the season, Friday's update indicates that he could miss the entire opening series.
Jul 23 2020Buxton (foot) is on the 30-man Opening Day roster and has avoided being placed on the injured list to begin the season, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton ran and took live swings during a workout Wednesday in St. Paul and was then reported to be headed to Chicago. It's not clear if Buxton will be in the Opening Day lineup or if he'll play in the team's first series against the White Sox, but it's a positive sign that he's not on the 10-day IL to begin the season.
Jul 22 2020Buxton (foot) could join the Twins in Chicago this weekend for the opening series against the White Sox, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old was running and took live swings during his workout Wednesday, and he appears to be near a full recovery from the left mid-foot sprain he suffered July 13. Buxton doesn't have to be on the Opening Day roster to join the team in Chicago, as he could also be listed as a member of the three-man taxi squad. More information should be available once the Twins officially announce their 30-man roster.
Jul 20 2020Buxton (foot) went through a workout Monday and will face live pitching Tuesday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton was able to run but didn't go full speed. It sounds like Buxton has a chance to be in the Opening Day lineup. Buxton suffered a left mid-foot sprain during Monday's intrasquad game and was carted off the field. However, he was back running Saturday.
Jul 18 2020Buxton (foot) ran in the outfield Saturday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. "He looks good. The swelling has not become a real issue. I'm encouraged we're going to see him out there sometime soon," said manager Rocco Baldelli. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton suffered a left mid-foot sprain during Monday's intrasquad game and was carted off the field. It's encouraging that he's running and he has said he plans to be ready on Opening Day. However, he didn't participate in the team's live batting practice, so we'll need to see if he can increase his activities in the next few days.
Jul 14 2020Manager Rocco Baldelli said Tuesday there's "definitely a good amount of hope that Byron [Buxton] will be out there on Opening Day" despite suffering a foot injury, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old suffered the left mid-foot sprain during Monday's intrasquad game and was carted off the field, but he's apparently already walking on his own without the aid of crutches or a protective boot. However, it's still early and until Buxton is back on the field it's worth being skeptical about his availability for the season opener against the White Sox.
Jul 13 2020Buxton has been diagnosed with a left foot injury and will receive imaging results Tuesday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Rocco Baldelli said that the initial "once-over" of Buxton when he came off the field didn't appear to show anything serious and the team is cautiously optimistic. The Twins will have more information on his condition after receiving imaging results Tuesday. If the 26-year-old is forced to miss an extended period of time to begin the season, Marwin Gonzalez and Jake Cave are likely candidates to see increased playing time in the outfield.
Jul 9 2020Buxton went went 1-for-4 with a double and a walk in Wednesday's scrimmage and made several running plays in the outfield, MLB.com reports. "I've got no limit. I'm back to being myself and going out and playing the game the right way," he said. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent surgery on his torn labrum in September, which placed his availability for the original Opening Day in question. However, he was able to rehab his injury during the pandemic shutdown and is back to full strength as evidenced Wednesday. Buxton was absent for the first few days of summer camp after the birth of his son, but he should be set to start in center field on Opening Day of the re-started 60-game season.
Jul 7 2020Buxton (personal) was present for the Twins' workouts Tuesday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton reportedly arrived at camp Sunday, but his presence at Tuesday's workouts signals that his intake testing for COVID-19 went smoothly. If the 26-year-old can remain healthy, he should be present for the remainder of camp, although whether his short absence will impact his readiness for the beginning of the regular season remains to be seen.
Jul 4 2020Buxton (personal) is expected to arrive in camp Sunday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton was absent for the first several days of camp after the birth of his son, but he's expected to join the Twins on Sunday. Before he's allowed to join the team, he'll need to undergo a COVID-19 test. However, if he tests negative, he should be ready for the start of the regular season.
Jul 3 2020Buxton hasn't reported to camp yet after the birth of his son Friday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's unclear when Buxton will join the Twins' camp after the birth of his son Friday. However, the 26-year-old is apparently fully healthy heading into camp after recovering from a shoulder injury during spring training.
Mar 27 2020Buxton (shoulder) would have been in the Opening Day lineup had the season started on time Thursday, manager Rocco Baldelli told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "Buck's rehab could not have gone smoother," Baldelli said. "Physically, mentally, he's in a tremendous spot." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent surgery on his torn labrum in September, which placed his availability for Opening Day in question. However, he would have been ready for Opening Day had it started on time. He now looks set to begin the season as Minnesota's starting center fielder whenever the MLB season begins.
Mar 20 2020Buxton (shoulder) figures to be fully healthy by the time play resumes, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins had planned on breaking camp with multiple reserve outfielders (Jake Cave and LaMonte Wade) in order to either manage Buxton's usage early in the season or to perhaps cover him if he opened on the injured list. However, it now seems likely that Buxton will be considered fully healthy at the start of the season, assuming he avoids any setbacks.
Mar 11 2020Buxton will work out Thursday but not hit, and then face live pitching again on Friday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. He reported normal soreness in his surgically-repaired shoulder after he took his first live batting practice session of the spring Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton could play in a game as soon as next week as he's been cleared for all baseball activities. If he doesn't have a setback, it looks like he could be ready for Opening Day in his return from surgery for a torn labrum.
Mar 10 2020Buxton (shoulder) took his first live batting practice session of the spring on Tuesday and reported no issues, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: If Buxton's shoulder responds well, he'll next take live batting practice again Thursday and Friday. Buxton could then play in a game as soon as next week as he's been cleared for all baseball activities. If he doesn't have a setback, it looks like he could be ready for Opening Day in his return from surgery for a torn labrum.
Mar 9 2020Buxton (shoulder) will take live batting practice Tuesday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton will hit for the first time since tearing his labrum back in September. Whether or not he's able to make Opening Day, which comes 16 days after he's scheduled to hit, remains to be seen.
Mar 2 2020Buxton (shoulder) is close to participating in live batting practice in the next few days, MLB.com reports. "The recovery couldn't have really gone any better to this point," Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. "That being said, we don't have it mapped out as far as when we're going to get him out there to play." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent surgery on his torn labrum in September, placing his availability for Opening Day in some question. He had stood in during live batting practice before, but according to this report did not take full swings. It's thought that he'll be ready for the start of the season, but it would be encouraging to see him ramp up activity in the next week as this report doesn't make it sound like he's as far along as thought when spring training began. He may only appear in a few spring training games before the regular season begins if all goes well.
Feb 19 2020Buxton (shoulder) participated in live batting practice Wednesday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent surgery on his torn labrum in September, placing his availability for Opening Day in some doubt. The fact that he's already hitting early in camp suggests that he'll likely be ready for the start of the season, but he'll have to get through the next few weeks without setbacks.
Feb 12 2020Buxton (shoulder) has been cleared to start swinging a bat, but he has not joined teammates in on-field batting cage sessions, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton underwent season-ending surgery Sept. 10 to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. The Twins will play it safe with his recovery during spring, but at this point it looks likely that he'll be ready for Opening Day. If healthy, he'll be Minnesota's starting center fielder in 2020.
Jan 17 2020Buxton (shoulder) has been given medical clearance to swing a bat and the Twins expect him to progress to hitting off a machine later this month, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: If all goes well, he could be ready to hit off live pitching at the start of spring training. Buxton underwent season-ending surgery Sept. 10 to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. If healthy, he should be Minnesota's starting center fielder in 2020.
Jan 10 2020Buxton (shoulder) signed a one-year, $3.075 million contract with the Twins on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton ended the 2019 season on the injured list after undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery, and it remains unclear if he'll be ready for the beginning of spring training. If healthy, he should be Minnesota's starting center fielder in 2020.
Sep 10 2019Buxton was placed on the 60-day injured list and will undergo season-ending shoulder surgery Tuesday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After visiting team doctors in New York, it's been determined that Buxton will require season-ending surgery to repair the labrum in his left shoulder. According to Derek Wetmore of SKOR North, the estimated recovery time is 5-to-6 months, so it's unclear at this time whether he'll be ready for the start of spring training. Ronald Torreyes will replace Buxton on the 40-man roster.
Sep 8 2019Buxton (shoulder) is away from the team Sunday to visit a doctor, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Buxton has been back with the team since the start of September but has only been available for running and defense. His visit Sunday is a scheduled one and not indicative of any setback. His timeline for returning as a hitter should become clearer once he hears from doctors.
Sep 1 2019The Twins reinstated Buxton (shoulder) from the 10-day injured list Sunday.
Aug 27 2019Buxton (shoulder) is expected to return at some point this season despite pausing his rehab assignment Tuesday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
Aug 24 2019Buxton (shoulder) will begin a rehab assignment and DH on Sunday before playing in the field Monday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
Aug 23 2019Buxton (shoulder) is on the verge of beginning a rehab assignment, according to Dan Hayes of The Athletic.
Aug 22 2019Buxton (shoulder) will take batting practice Thursday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. "There's a chance Buck goes out and plays a couple of games [on a minor
Aug 19 2019Buxton (shoulder) has been cleared for soft toss and tee work, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
Aug 13 2019Buxton is making progress in his recovery from a left shoulder subluxation and getting closer to facing live pitching, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
Aug 3 2019Buxton's left shoulder subluxation will take a while to heal, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Jul 30 2019Buxton went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Tuesday's 2-1 win over the Marlins.
Jul 25 2019Buxton (concussion) was activated from the 7-day injured list prior to Thursday's game against the White Sox, Dan Hayes of The Athletic<\/a> reports. He is starting in center field and hitting ninth, according to Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times<\/a>.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 24 2019Buxton (concussion, wisdom teeth) is not in Wednesday's lineup against the Yankees, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 23 2019Buxton (concussion) had his wisdom teeth removed Tuesday, and his return is expected to be delayed as a result, Dan Hayes of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 22 2019Buxton (concussion) is not in Monday's lineup<\/a> against the Yankees.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Buxton (concussion) took batting practice, ran the bases and completed outfield drills Sunday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 18 2019Buxton (concussion) participated in on-field drills early on Thursday, MLB.com<\/a> reports. \"He's doing some activities out in the field, he was here early taking care of all of that. It was a good day,\" said manager Rocco Baldelli.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 16 2019Buxton was placed on the 7-day concussion injured list Tuesday, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Buxton (face\/chest) is out of the lineup<\/a> for Sunday's game against the Indians.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2019Buxton left Saturday's win after the eighth inning after landing hard on his face while making a catch, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2019Buxton left Saturday's win following the eighth inning after landing hard on his face while making a catch, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 29 2019Buxton (wrist) was activated from the 10-day injured list<\/a> Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 28 2019Buxton (wrist) took batting practice on the field and did some baserunning prior to Friday's game, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 25 2019Buxton (wrist) may require a short rehab assignment before coming off the injured list, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 23 2019Buxton (wrist) could return from the 10-day injured list early next week if his wrist feels well after hitting in a batting cage Sunday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press<\/a> reports. \"I can't tell you that he's 100 percent right now, but he's really getting close to that, so we're literally getting down to a discussion of days where it's either one day or the next or the next,\" said manager Rocco Baldelli.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 23 2019Buxton (wrist) could return from the 10-day IL early next week if his wrist feels well after hitting in a batting cage Sunday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press<\/a> reports. \"I can't tell you that he's 100 percent right now, but he's really getting close to that, so we're literally getting down to a discussion of days where it's either one day or the next or the next,\" said manager Rocco Baldelli.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 18 2019Buxton (wrist) was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 17 2019Buxton (wrist) is not in the lineup Monday against the Red Sox, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 16 2019Buxton (wrist) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Royals, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 15 2019Buxton (wrist) is not in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Royals, Lynn Worthy of The Kansas City Star<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 14 2019Buxton exited Friday's game against the Royals due to a right wrist bruise, and he'll be considered day-to-day moving forward, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 6 2019Buxton is not in the lineup Thursday against the Indians, Dan Hayes of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 1 2019Buxton went 2-for-3 with a solo homer and two RBI in Minnesota's 6-2 win Saturday against the Rays.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 1 2019Buxton went 2-for-3 with a solo homer and two RBI in a 6-2 win over the Rays on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 30 2019Buxton (knee) is starting in center field and hitting ninth Thursday against the Rays, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 28 2019Buxton was removed from Tuesday's game versus the Brewers after colliding with the wall in center field, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 28 2019Buxton was diagnosed with a bruised right knee after leaving Tuesday's game and is considered day-to-day, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 27 2019Buxton went 1-for-3 with a three-run home run Monday against the Brewers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 23 2019Buxton is not in Thursday's lineup<\/a> against the Angels.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 22 2019Buxton is not starting Wednesday<\/a> against the Angels.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 18 2019Buxton went 2-for-4 with a grand slam and an RBI single in Saturday's 18-4 win over the Mariners.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Buxton went 2-for-5 in a victory over Seattle on Thursday, driving in three runs with a fourth-inning home run and scoring twice.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 15 2019Buxton went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in an 8-7 victory against the Angels on Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 13 2019Buxton went 3-for-3 with a double, walk and an RBI in Sunday's 5-3 loss to the Tigers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 11 2019Buxton is not in the lineup for Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Tigers, according to Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com<\/a>.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2018Buxton (hand) is set to undergo an MRI after his X-rays came back negative, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton suffered a hand injury during Thursday's Triple-A action on a swing, and he left the game shortly after. Although he's currently being considered day-to-day, a stint on the disabled list hasn't been ruled out. More information should become available following the MRI.
Jul 2 2018Buxton (toe) was activated from the disabled list and optioned to Triple-A Rochester on Monday.It's been a rough year for Buxton, who has missed time with migraines and a fractured toe. He's been poor when healthy, hitting just .156/.183/.200 in 28 games. He hadn't done enough on his rehab assignment (hitting just .214/.267/.333) to prove that he should be back in the big leagues, so he'll now be stuck in the minors until he gets his rhythm back.
Jun 30 2018Manager Paul Molitor said Saturday that there's no guarantee Buxton (toe) will be recalled once his 20-day rehab assignment ends, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton is currently on Day 12 of his latest rehab stint, so the Twins have roughly a week to make a decision. The 24-year-old has hit safely in six of nine games since reporting to Triple-A Rochester, but only once has he had multiple hits, leading to a .206/.250/.324 slash line. It sounds like the Twins want Buxton to get more comfortable at the plate while also giving Jake Cave a bit more time to make an impression.
Jun 28 2018Buxton (toe) will play in both games of a doubleheader for Triple-A Rochester on Thursday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.Buxton appears to be closing in on a return to the big leagues as he's set to compete in another twin-bill at the Triple-A level. Over six games with Rochester in the past couple weeks, he's gone 4-for-22 with one home run and four RBI, and more importantly, hasn't experienced any setbacks or pain in the fractured left big toe. Look for an update on his status from manager Paul Molitor in the coming days.
Jun 26 2018Buxton (toe) is not in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the White Sox, according to Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com, and remains on the disabled list for the time being.Buxton had a shot to rejoin the Twins on Tuesday, but his rehab assignment will continue for the time being. He is eligible to be activated from the disabled list at any point, and will rejoin the big club when the Twins deem him ready. Just when that will be remains to be seen, as Minnesota likely wants him to get at-bats at the major-league level, but will not be forced to add him back to the roster until July 9.
Jun 24 2018Buxton (toe) could rejoin the Twins on Tuesday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.The Twins are keeping this one close to the vest, as manager Paul Molitor wouldn't say whether Buxton could be an option to rejoin the active roster after outfielder Ryan LaMarre was optioned to Triple-A following Sunday's game. Unfortunately the Twins have an off day Monday, so fantasy owners may not know for sure if Buxton will be back until after lineups lock in certain formats. Triple-A Rochester, where Buxton is rehabbing, plays a doubleheader at Syracuse on Monday. Buxton is hitting just .167/.250/.333 with one home run, two steals and seven strikeouts in 18 at-bats so far during his rehab assignment.
Jun 16 2018Buxton (toe) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Rochester on Tuesday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.The pain is gone from Buxton's fractured left big toe, Berardino also reports. The young centerfielder has had a very rough time when healthy this season, hitting an anemic .156/.183/.200 in 28 games. If he can finally get properly healthy, though, he should be an important player for the Twins, though strikeout issues still cap his fantasy ceiling for now.
Jun 11 2018Buxton (toe) ran the bases Sunday and was able to take some swings with the bat, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.It sounds like Buxton's broken left big toe is making some progress, but there's no timetable yet for his return. He will travel with the team on an upcoming road trip, but he'll need a minor league rehab assignment given his time on the DL (since May 30).
Jun 9 2018Buxton (toe) is scheduled to participate in some baseball activities Saturday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton is expected to hit off a tee after using a low-gravity treadmill. This is the first time he'll take part in some baseball activities since being placed on the disabled list, although the timetable for his return is still quite murky.
Jun 6 2018Buxton has only made moderate progress in his recovery from a broken toe, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.The pain in Buxton's toe is apparently subsiding at a slower rate than expected. He still hasn't resumed baseball activities, and a possible return date for the outfielder likely won't come into focus until he's able to do so. Ryan LaMarre will continue to fill in for the injured Buxton in center field.
May 30 2018Buxton (toe) landed on the 10-day disabled list Wednesday, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton fractured his left big toe in April but returned from the disabled list in mid-May. It has seemingly continued to be an issue for the 24-year-old outfielder, who will get his toe examined within the next few days. It's unclear at this point how long he'll be out of the starting lineup.
May 30 2018Buxton isn't in Wednesday's starting lineup against Kansas City, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports.It's unclear if Buxton is dealing with an injury, as Ryan LaMarre will take over in center field for the second consecutive game. If he is dealing with something, expect an update on his status prior to Thursday's series opener against Cleveland.
May 29 2018Buxton is not in Tuesday's starting lineup against the Royals, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton gets the day off, as Ryan LaMarre will take over in center and is slated to bat ninth. The 24-year-old outfielder is in the midst of a 4-for-28 stretch with one RBI and nine strikeouts over his last 10 games.
May 27 2018Buxton (head) will start in center field and bat ninth Sunday against the Mariners, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.It appeared that Buxton might have suffered yet another medical setback after he was removed from Saturday's game against the Mariners shortly after colliding with the outfield wall at full speed while tracking a flyball. Fortunately for the Twins, Buxton exhibited no concussion symptoms upon being examined by team trainers, coming away from the incident with little more than a cut above his eye. With Buxton experiencing no unexpected soreness upon reporting to the ballpark Sunday, manager Paul Molitor had no qualms about inserting the outfielder back into the lineup.
May 26 2018Buxton showed no signs of a concussion after leaving Saturday's game after running hard into the center field wall trying to make a catch and is considered day to day, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton's head hit the ground after he jumped and hit the wall trying to catch a ball that went for a home run. He suffered a cut above his eye, but it sounds like he passed a concussion test.
May 26 2018Buxton left Saturday's game against Seattle after running hard into the center field wall trying to make a catch.Buxton's head hit the ground after he jumped and hit the wall trying to catch a ball that went for a home run. He suffered a cut above his eye and will likely be evaluated for a concussion.
May 19 2018Buxton is not in the lineup against Milwaukee on Saturday.Buxton is just 2-for-23 since returning from a trip to the disabled list with migraines and a fractured toe. On the season, he's hitting just .156/.194/.203. Jake Cave will make his major-league debut in center field in Buxton's place.
May 19 2018Buxton is not in the lineup Saturday against Milwaukee.Buxton is just 2-for-23 since returning from a trip to the disabled list with migraines and a fractured toe. On the season, he's hitting just .156/.194/.203. The newly-promoted Jake Cave will make his major-league debut in center field in Buxton's place.
May 13 2018Buxton is out of the lineup Sunday against the Angels, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.According to Berardino, manager Paul Molitor relayed that Buxton is feeling fine physically, so the outfielder's absence Sunday is likely just for maintenance purposes. The 24-year-old overcame a bout with migraines in addition to a hairline fracture in his left big toe to return from a month-long absence and start the first three games of the series with the Angels, during which he went 1-for-10 with a double and five strikeouts. Max Kepler will cover center field in Buxton's stead in the series finale.
May 10 2018Buxton (toe) was activated from the 10-day disabled list Thursday and is in the starting lineup against the Angels.The 24-year-old originally landed on the disabled list back on April 18 with migraines, but suffered a hairline fracture in his toe while on a minor-league rehab assignment which ultimately extended his absence. Buxton was able to do a range of running drills earlier in the week with no issues, so the Twins opted to activate him without sending him back out on another rehab assignment. He'll immediately reclaim his role as the team's primary center fielder. Buxton, who was hitting just .195/.233/.244 before landing on the shelf, will face right-hander Garrett Richards in his first game back.
May 7 2018Buxton (toe) didn't do any running Sunday and is uncertain if he'll need to head out on a minor-league rehab assignment before returning from the 10-day disabled list, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.For the second straight day, Buxton didn't do any running Saturday and instead just hit in the batting cage, but the Twins haven't indicated that the lack of on-field activity amounts to a setback for the outfielder. The Twins may just be taking a cautious approach with Buxton, who did some light running Friday and should increase the intensity of his workouts this week. Buxton's last game action came April 22 with High-A Fort Myers before he was temporarily shut down due to the toe issue, so it would seem more likely than not that the Twins would have the 24-year-old restart his rehab assignment before adding him back to the active roster. Expect the Twins to make an official decision on Buxton's next step within the next couple of days.
May 7 2018Buxton (toe) conducted numerous running drills Monday including sprints, backpedals and cuts, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Berardino added that Buxton was smiling following the drill work, making it seem as if his injured toe didn't bother him much during the workout. It's still unclear whether or not he'll embark on a rehab assignment before returning, but this seems like a very positive development for the speedy outfielder.
May 5 2018Buxton (toe) participated in the Twins' batting practice Saturday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton indicated he hopes to avoid an additional minor-league rehab assignment, and already played one game at High-A Fort Myers and multiple games at extended spring training in late April. The 24-year-old resumed running Friday and still has no definitive return timetable, but appears to be nearing his return.
May 4 2018Buxton (toe) was able to partake in light running prior to the Twins' game in Chicago on Friday, Phil Miller of the Star Tribune report.Buxton remains without a definitive timetable after going down with a hairline fracture in his left big toe a couple weeks ago. A better sense of his eventual return should clear up once he's able to begin more intensive running and agility drills in the coming days.
May 3 2018Buxton (toe) traveled with the Twins on a 10-game road trip, but did not begin running Thursday. He could be activated during the road trip, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "I don't really have a date in mind; I haven't been given a date," said manager Paul Molitor.Buxton has a hairline fracture in his left big toe. It's not clear if the Twins will activate him from the DL when he's able to play or first send him on a short minor league rehab assignment. Buxton will first need to start running before a timetable can be determined. However, it does appear like he'll be activated in the next week since he traveled with the team on the 10-game road trip.
May 2 2018Buxton (toe) will travel with the Twins on their upcoming road trip and may return without a rehab assignment, Brandon Warne of The Athletic Minnesota reports.The Twins will be on the road from May 3-13, so it sounds as though they're hopeful that he could be back somewhere in that time frame. Buxton has already had one rehab stint during his current stay on the disabled list, back when he was recovering from the migraines which initially knocked him out of the lineup. That rehab assignment led to his current issue, a hairline fracture on his toe, which he suffered after fouling a ball off his foot in a rehab game. He remains limited in practice, though, and was unable to run Tuesday, so he doesn't appear to be on the verge of returning.
May 1 2018Buxton (toe) was unable to run Tuesday, LaVelle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton has been unable to run over the past couple of days after getting some light running in over the weekend. He's participating in limited offensive drills in order to keep his swing sharp, but it still remains to be seen when he'll be able to return to game action. Max Kepler should continue to serve as the Twins' primary center fielder until Buxton is healthy.
Apr 30 2018Buxton (toe) was able to do some light running in the outfield Sunday, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.The Twins allowed Buxton to perform the activity in order to gauge his level of pain tolerance for the hairline fracture in his left toe, an injury team doctors didn't believe would be worsened by light running. Manager Paul Molitor indicated that Buxton would go through some other drills over the next couple of days in order for the Twins to have a better idea regarding a potential return date for the outfielder before the team begins its four-game series in Chicago against the White Sox on Thursday. Until Buxton is cleared to return, Max Kepler looks on track to serve as the Twins' primary center fielder.
Apr 28 2018Buxton has been diagnosed with a hairline fracture in his left big toe after fouling a ball off it last weekend and is without a timetable to return, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.According to Bollinger, the Twins will know more about Buxton's ETA over the next five days or so. Buxton recently got over the migraine issues that were plaguing him earlier this month, but the toe issue has turned out to be much worse than initial expectations. Fortunately it is not a major break that would require a 4-to-6 week absence, but he could still miss a good chunk of May. He should not be deployed in upcoming weekly lineups. Robbie Grossman should see more playing time over the coming weeks.
Apr 27 2018Buxton's migraines went a way a week ago but his sore left big toe remains a problem, the Star Tribune reports.Buxton is eligible to return from the disabled list but remains unable to get back to game action after fouling a ball off his toe in a rehab game Sunday. He had to have a hole drilled in his left big toenail in order to reduce the pressure on the toe. The Twins would like him to get some at-bats in another rehab game or two but may skip that in order to get him back with the team. When exactly that will be possible remains unclear, however.
Apr 25 2018Buxton (migraines, toe) will not return to extended spring training games Wednesday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.The speedy outfielder managed to hit off a tee Wednesday, but he's apparently still not feeling good enough to return to game action. Bollinger added that the team medical staff had to drill into his left big toe to relieve pressure in it after the injury occurred, which seems like it could hinder his return to action further than the new injury already has.
Apr 24 2018Buxton (migraines, toe) will not play in a minor-league rehab game Tuesday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Instead, Buxton will head to extended spring training to receive treatment on the left toe he injured over the weekend after fouling a ball off his foot. Buxton is expected to play a few games at extended spring training before hopefully rejoining the Twins sometime during their upcoming series against the Reds this weekend.
Apr 23 2018Buxton (migraines) is being evaluated after fouling a ball off his foot in a rehab game Sunday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.The potential foot injury explains why Buxton was held out of a second rehab game Monday. The nature of the foot injury is not yet known. It's good to hear that he hasn't suffered a return of his migraines, though if the foot issue turns out to be more than just a bruise he could end up missing more time. If it's nothing serious, he could return Wednesday against the Yankees, the first day he's eligible to be activated.
Apr 23 2018Buxton (migraines) received X-rays on his foot Monday, which revealed he didn't suffer any structural damage, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton hit a foul ball off his foot during a rehab game at High-A Fort Myers on Sunday. Although he didn't incur a serious injury, his return from the disabled list could be delayed by a couple days. While he's eligible to be activated Wednesday, it looks like the Twins are looking to have him back for their series against the Reds, which begins Friday.
Apr 23 2018Buxton (migraines) got through a rehab game Sunday without issues, Dan Hayes of The Athletic Minnesota reports.Buxton has been on the disabled list after suffering migraines, something he apparently has a history with. He's eligible to return to action Wednesday and appears on track to do so, though he isn't playing another rehab game Monday, so it's possible that there was an unreported problem.
Apr 22 2018Buxton (head) will begin playing in games at extended spring training Sunday and could be activated from the 10-day disabled list Wednesday when first eligible, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.It sounds like Buxton is progressing as expected since being shut down a few days earlier after experiencing migraines. After taking batting practice Saturday with no complications, Buxton will serve as the designated hitter in a simulated game Sunday before playing the outfield the following two days. If all goes well, Buxton will likely rejoin the Twins in the Bronx in advance of the final two contests of Minnesota's four-game series with the Yankees.
Apr 21 2018Buxton (migraines) took batting practice Saturday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Manager Paul Molitor said Buxton has exhibited slight improvement since being placed on the 10-day disabled list last Wednesday with his migraine issues, and Saturday's batting practice is the first indication of his progression. It remains to be seen if the 24-year-old will return from the DL when eligible Wednesday or if a minor-league rehab appearance is on the table.
Apr 20 2018Manager Paul Molitor said Buxton (migraines) has exhibited "slight improvement" and will try to get out to the ballpark for a light workout in the near future, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton was recently placed on the disabled list after experiencing some migraine issues earlier in the week. It remains to be seen whether he will return against the Yankees on Wednesday, which is the day he's eligible to come off the DL -- but more should be know in the next couple days. In his place, Max Kepler has been filling in at the center field position.
Apr 18 2018Buxton (migraines) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Wednesday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton has been dealing with migraines over the past few days, an issue that has bothered him in the past, so the Twins will play it safe and give him some time off to recover. The young outfielder admitted in spring that he gets migraines about once a month, but he's been taking medicine to address the issue. The move is retroactive to April 15, so Buxton will be eligible to return April 25 should he be ready. For now, Ryan LaMarre was recalled from Triple-A Rochester to take Buxton's roster spot, while LaMarre and Robbie Grossman will both be candidates to pick up playing time in his stead.
Apr 18 2018Buxton will not play Wednesday against the Indians due to a migraine, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton will sit out for the second straight game as he continues to deal with a migraine issue, which has plagued the outfielder in the past. Manager Paul Molitor said that there are no plans for Buxton to undergo any sort of tests at this time, and that the club will reassess his status prior to Friday's series opener in Tampa Bay.
Apr 17 2018Buxton (migraines) is uncertain for Wednesday's game against Cleveland, the Twin Cities Pioneer Press reports. Complicating matters for Buxton and the Twins is his history of having migraines. "He has history," manager Paul Molitor said. "Sometimes they come and go. Sometimes they linger. You could tell he wasn't right when he came in. He got checked out and we sent him back (to the team hotel)."Buxton was unable to take batting practice Tuesday. Earlier this spring Buxton said he gets the migraines about once a month, but that he now takes stronger medicine to address it. "It's just a thing I know I have to put up with," he told the Pioneer Press. "When they do come, I just take the medicine, and it just calms it down."
Apr 17 2018Buxton was scratched from Tuesday's lineup against the Indians due to a migraine.With Buxton heading to the bench, Max Kepler will slide over to center field while Robbie Grossman will enter the lineup in right field. The issue doesn't appear to be anything overly serious, so consider him day-to-day for now.
Apr 2 2018Buxton went 0-for-4 and struck out twice Monday in Minnesota's loss to the Pirates.Buxton has yet to find his groove at the plate, as he's gone 3-for-15 (.200) with six strikeouts over four games. However, he's been a threat when he's managed to reach base and has collected two stolen bases. After hitting .300 with an .893 OPS after the All-Star break last season, Buxton will have plenty of opportunities to continue improving as the season goes on.
Mar 11 2018Buxton is 7-for-22 (.318) with a home run and three stolen bases through nine spring training games.Fresh off his breakout campaign in which he popped 16 homers and stole 29 bases while providing elite defense in center field, Buxton appears to be carrying over his strong performance into 2018. Though spring training results aren't necessarily indicative of regular season success, it is nice to see the streaky hitter getting off to a productive start. If Buxton can translate his 2017 second-half performance into a full 2018 campaign, he'll entrench himself as one of the premier fantasy outfielders.
Oct 7 2017Tests revealed Buxton did not suffer a fractured rib following a collision with the outfield wall during Tuesday's wild-card game against the Yankees, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.While an earlier report indicated Buxton was dealing with a cracked rib, Saturday's test results seem to indicate otherwise, which is encouraging news. He should be able to resume his normal offseason work after a short recovery.
Oct 7 2017Buxton played through a cracked rib after crashing into the outfield wall during Tuesday's wild-card game against the Yankees, Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press reports.Although Buxton was officially removed with upper back tightness, it appears as though the centerfielder suffered a cracked rib instead, while making a spectacular play to rob Todd Frazier of extra bases. Since the Twins have been eliminated from the playoffs, this injury shouldn't have any impact fantasy wise, but it will just mean a longer recovery for Buxton. He will be good to go for spring training.
Oct 4 2017Buxton, who suffered from upper-back tightness in the Twins' loss to the Yankees in the American League wild-card game Tuesday, will likely undergo further tests in the days to come, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton sustained the injury upon slamming into the wall while making a catch and was lifted from the game after three innings. With the Twins returning to Minnesota on Wednesday, Buxton will be reexamined by team doctors to determine if the outfielder is dealing with anything more than tightness heading into the offseason. Buxton didn't express much concern about the injury after the game, so for now, the expectation remains that he'll enter spring training at full health. Thanks largely to a big second half, Buxton ended up improving his all-around production in 2017, slashing .253/.314/.413 with 16 home runs, 51 RB1, 69 runs and a 29-for-30 success rate on stolen bases.
Oct 3 2017Buxton is dealing with an undisclosed injury and won't return to Tuesday's wild-card game against the Yankees, Joe Trezza of MLB.com reports.Buxton collided with the wall while making a catch during the second inning and is now dealing with some lingering discomfort. While specifics on the injury haven't been released, Buxton was replaced by Zach Granite in center field to start the bottom of the fourth inning and he won't return to the game.
Sep 30 2017Buxton is out of Saturday's lineup against the Tigers, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.The Twins will give Buxton the day off for the second time in the last three games, which suggests he might be dealing with some general soreness and they want to get him as fresh as possible for the wild-card game. Zack Granite is starting in center field and leading off.
Sep 28 2017Buxton is not in the lineup Thursday against Cleveland, MLBpressbox.com reports.Buxton will retreat to the bench for the first time since early September now that Minnesota has officially clinched a playoff spot, while Zack Granite picks up a start in center. Over the course of the month, Buxton is hitting .280/.343/.484 with three home runs and 13 RBI.
Sep 14 2017Buxton went 2-for-4 with his first career walk-off home run, a solo shot in the bottom of the 10th inning, in Thursday's win over Toronto.Buxton has 10 home runs in his last 31 games and is hitting .322 over that span. He's finishing the year strong and having a remarkable turnaround after hitting just .216 with five home runs and a .594 OPS in the first half of the season.
Sep 9 2017Buxton went 2-for-3 with a solo home run Saturday in the Twins' 5-2 loss to the Royals.The talented but erratic 23-year-old entered the day stuck in an 0-for-18 slide over his previous four contests, but Buxton recovered in a fine way, lofting his 14th homer of the year over the left-field wall off Royals starter Jake Junis. He'll take a .249/.313/.407 triple slash into Sunday action.
Sep 2 2017Buxton (hand) is starting in center field and hitting third Saturday against the Royals, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.After being out of the lineup for two games with a bone contusion in his hand, Buxton is back in heart of the Twins' order against lefty Onelki Garcia. This was the best-case scenario for his owners, as it originally seemed like he may have suffered a fracture that would have ended his season. Plug him in with confidence, as he was hitting .324/.354/.619 with eight home runs and eight steals (on eight attempts) in 105 at-bats leading up to his injury.
Sep 1 2017Buxton (hand) is out of Friday's lineup against the Royals, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton and the Twins got good news when he was diagnosed with a bone contusion instead of a fractured hamate. He will miss his second straight game, with Zack Granite getting the start in center field and hitting ninth.
Sep 1 2017Buxton (hand) is out of Friday's lineup, but supposed to hit in the cage and was close to being used for defense or pinch running in Thursday's game, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.It sounds like he is truly day-to-day, and likely available off the bench Friday. If he is able to hit in the cage without issue, he could return to the lineup later in this weekend's series against the Royals. Zack Granite is starting in center field and hitting ninth in his stead.
Aug 31 2017Buxton (hand) is not in the lineup for Thursday's game against the White Sox, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.Buxton left Wednesday's game after injuring his hand during a swing, and will get the series finale off to recover. There hasn't been much word on his condition, but he should still be considered day-to-day for the time being. In his place, Zack Granite draws the start in center.
Aug 31 2017Buxton (hand) revealed that he's dealing with a left hamate bone injury, and will receive the results from his MRI prior to Minnesota's matinee against the White Sox on Thursday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.If Buxton is indeed shelved with a fractured hamate bone, he could wind up missing the rest of the season, or at least close to it. The center fielder felt a "sharp pain" during a swing in his first at-bat Wednesday, and recorded a "painful hit" during his last plate appearance, according to Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press. There will be a better sense of a timetable once Buxton receives the official test results, but it doesn't look too good at this point.
Aug 31 2017Buxton (hand) was diagnosed with a bone contusion following his MRI on Thursday, Mark Rosen of WCCO-TV reports.This is an immediate relief for Buxton, who was looking at a fractured hamate bone, which could have potentially ended his season. Instead, he will be available off the bench as a pinch runner for Thursday's afternoon game against the White Sox, and should be considered day-to-day moving forward. It seems likely that the club will choose to rest him for a few days, especially after he felt pain in his hand during his last at-bat Wednesday. In his place, Zack Granite is manning center field and could remain there until Buxton rejoins the lineup.
Aug 30 2017Manager Paul Molitor said Buxton exited Wednesday's game against the White Sox after injuring himself during a swing, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.The details of the injury remain a little murky, but it appears he may be dealing with a hand issue after his left hand slipped off the bat during a swing Wednesday night. He's set to be reevaluated Thursday, after which there should be a clearer idea regarding his status for the series finale. Zack Granite replaced Buxton on Wednesday and would likely continue to spell him if the center fielder is forced to miss additional time.
Aug 27 2017Buxton went 4-for-5 with three home runs and five RBI during Sunday's win over the Blue Jays.Buxton will be reluctant to see the calendar turn to September, as the dynamic 23-year-old has been hitting at a torrid pace during the month of August. Following his first career multi-home run game, he is now slashing .304/.340/.543 with five home runs, 16 RBI and seven stolen bases this month. It appears that Buxton may finally be materializing into the well-rounded star that many baseball pundits believed he'd eventually become. There have been some growing pains with the speedy center fielder, but he should be deployed with confidence in all fantasy formats moving forward.
Aug 20 2017Buxton is batting third and playing centerfield Sunday against the Diamondbacks, Shane Jackson of MLB.com reports.With Miguel Sano sidelined due to a shin injury, manager Paul Molitor will move Buxton up to the heart of the order. The speedy centerfielder has been hot at the plate in August -- slashing .339/.385/.593 with three homers and five stolen bases in 18 games -- earning himself a more favorable placement in the batting order. It's unclear whether Buxton will stick that high in the lineup when Sano returns, but it would be difficult to move him back to the eight-hole if he continues to hit the ball well.
Aug 19 2017Buxton went 3-for-4 with a double, a triple and a solo home run Friday, scoring all three times he reached base in a 10-3 win over the Diamondbacks.The homer, Buxton's eighth of the season, was an inside-the-park job that featured the fastest time of any player circling the bases (13.85 seconds) since Statcast began tracking in 2015. The center fielder is once again putting together a big finish to a campaign, slashing .345/.393/.582 with three home runs, five steals, 10 RBI and 12 runs through 17 games in August.
Aug 17 2017Buxton went 1-for-3 with a solo home run and two runs scored during Thursday's loss to Cleveland in the afternoon game of their doubleheader.The center fielder also scored a run in the second game of day, and now sports a .234/.305/.334 slash line for the season. Until Buxton can cut down his strikeout percentage (29.5), it'll be difficult for him to live up to his potential. This could prove to be a buy-low opportunity, as he's still just 23 years old and owns the power-speed upside coveted in all fantasy settings.
Aug 12 2017Buxton went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI on Saturday against the Tigers.Buxton's sixth bomb of the campaign broke up a 5-5 game, but the Twins would eventually lose the contest. Although his numbers at the plate had been abysmal this year, his 19 steals are what have been providing his fantasy value.
Aug 10 2017Buxton went 3-for-5 with two runs and two RBI Thursday in Milwaukee.Buxton hit RBI singles in the second and third innings while coming around to score on both occasions. He added another hit in the fifth to turn this into his fourth three-hit performance of the season. Buxton has exactly one of those in every month since May.
Aug 9 2017Buxton went 1-for-4 with his 19th stolen base in Tuesday's win over Milwaukee. He's hitting .356 (16-for-45) in his last 14 games.Buxton hit just .184 with a .524 OPS in June, and he's generally struggled to keep his batting average above .200. However, he's turned his season around since the start of July with an .812 OPS since July 1, despite missing two weeks with a groin injury.
Aug 1 2017Buxton (groin) was activated from the 10-day disabled list Tuesday, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports.Buxton was able to get through three rehab games with Triple-A Rochester without any issues, clearing the way for him to return to the big club. The 23-year-old was on a six-game hitting streak before a left groin strain forced him to the shelf, so he'll look to pick up where he left off before the injury. He should immediately reclaim his role as the everyday center fielder for Minnesota, though it will be interesting to see if the Twins continue to give Zack Granite looks in the outfield as he's slashing .326/.380/.385 over his last 12 games.
Jul 30 2017Buxton (hamstring) went 5-for-12 in three rehab games for Triple-A Rochester and is set to be activated from the DL before Tuesday's game, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton will likely return to the everyday lineup in center field. It will be interesting to see if the Twins continue to find a spot in the lineup for Zack Granite who is hitting .368 (14-for-38) over his last ten games.
Jul 27 2017Buxton (hamstring) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Rochester this weekend, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton was set to return from the DL on Tuesday, but then was sidelined with migraine headaches. The Twins feel he needs a few at-bats with the layoff, so he'll play at Triple-A. However, his exact timeline is unclear. He'll likely be activated after Monday's off day for the Twins.
Jul 26 2017Buxton (head) has yet to be activated due to a migraine issue, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports Wednesday.Buxton has been on the 10-day disabled list with a groin issue, but that's not what has been bothering the young outfielder for the past few days. Until the headaches clear up, expect Buxton to remain on the disabled list. The Twins have an off-day Thursday, so chances are he will only miss one or two more games at most.
Jul 25 2017Buxton (groin) has been bothered by migraine headaches recently, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton's groin is reportedly feeling better, but he's not ready to rejoin the Twins due to the fact that he's been afflicted by migraine headaches over the past couple of days. Buxton could potentially return from the DL on Wednesday, but Zack Granite will continue to hold down center field in his absence.
Jul 22 2017Buxton (groin) will not go on a rehab assignment before returning to the team, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports.There were some reports floating around that said that Buxton would go to Triple-A to log some at-bats before making an official return, but the Twins decided it would be too much traveling for a one- or two-game rehab assignment. The young outfielder will instead travel with the team when they head to Los Angeles with the hope of being activated Tuesday, the first day he's eligible to return.
Jul 21 2017Buxton (groin) will run and field flyballs Friday to test out his injured groin, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports.If all goes well, Buxton is expected to go on a brief rehab assignment with Triple-A Rochester. The young outfielder will likely be ready to return to the lineup Tuesday when he's first eligible to be activated, but it still hinges on how this increase in activity goes over the next few days.
Jul 20 2017Buxton (groin) has been rehabbing at Target Field and could be activated from the DL when eligible on Tuesday, MLB.com reports.It doesn't sound like Buxton will go on a rehab assignment and will just be activated from the DL. Zack Granite will continue to get starts in center field while Buxton is out.
Jul 15 2017Buxton (groin) lands on the 10-day disabled list prior to Saturday's game against the Astros.Buxton exited Friday's game with a left groin strain that will force him to miss the next week and a half. It didn't appear as though the injury was a major setback, so the centerfielder should be able to return off the DL when he's eligible, but it was enough to force him out of the lineup for an extended period of time. In his place, Eddie Rosario will likely take over while Zack Granite gets a fair share of starts in left.
Jul 14 2017Buxton left Friday's game with left groin soreness after appearing to lose his balance rounding second base, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.In Buxton's absence, Zach Granite took over in center field with Eddie Rosario covering left field. If he misses any sort of significant time, this would likely be the look of Minnesota's starting outfield. It doesn't sound like this injury will be serious, however, so consider him day-to-day for now. Buxton had been on a roll at the end of the first half of the season after a recent change to his batting stance that removed his leg kick. He was 9-for-19 with a home run over his last five games.
Jul 9 2017Buxton is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Orioles, LaVelle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton has notched nine hits and two stolen bases over the past five contests but he'll head to the bench in favor of Zack Granite. The speedy outfielder will finish the first half of the season slashing an uninspiring .216/.288/.306 with five homers, 16 RBI and 16 stolen bases. His 30.7 percent strikeout rate remains his largest flaw at the plate.
Jul 4 2017Buxton went 3-for-4 with his fifth home run and 15th stolen base as well as two runs scored in Tuesday's win over the Angels.Buxton hit just .184 with a .524 OPS in June, and he's generally struggled to keep his batting average above .200. He's hitting .357 (5-for-14) so far in July, raising his average to .204. Buxton has been a disappointment at the plate this season thanks to his two terrible months (he also had a .433 OPS in April), but he's at least contributing stolen bases. He's also offering outstanding glove work in center field, as he's the top fielder in the game by defensive WAR.
Jul 1 2017Buxton is not in the lineup for the second game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Royals, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton performed well in the first game of Saturday's twin bill, going 2-for-4 with a walk, but will get the evening off. Max Kepler will take over in centerfield and bat fourth against probable Kansas City starter Jason Hammel.
Jun 28 2017Buxton is out of the lineup Wednesday against the Red Sox.Buxton's base knock Tuesday gave him just his second hit in 21 at-bats over the last six games, leaving his average at an even .200 for the season. It appears his absence from the lineup Wednesday is just a routine day off, but Buxton may need to turn things around quickly if he hopes to avoid a demotion to the minors. Max Kepler will pick up the start in center field in Buxton's stead Wednesday.
Jun 24 2017Buxton was added to the lineup for Saturday's game against the Indians, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton was initially slated to avoid Indians ace Corey Kluber on Saturday, but Max Kepler's foot contusion and subsequent scratch from the lineup card opened a spot in the lineup for the 23-year-old. He will bat ninth for the Twins and roam his usual spot in center field.
Jun 24 2017Buxton will take a seat for Saturday's tilt against the Indians, Lavelle E. Neal of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton has found some success at the plate over the last three games, going 4-for-13 with an RBI and two runs scored. He will avoid Indians ace Corey Kluber on Saturday, with Eddie Rosario shifting over from left field to make the start in center and Robbie Grossman entering the lineup and batting third.
Jun 14 2017Buxton went 3-for-3 with a double, a solo homer, a walk and two steals in Wednesday's loss to Seattle.You certainly can't pin this loss on the young center fielder, who did everything he could to carry his offense from the eighth spot in the batting order. Unfortunately, such nights have been rare for Buxton -- over a 17-game stretch prior to Wednesday, he hit just .226/.255/.321 with a single homer, five RBI and four runs. Those are fantasy-team-killing numbers; with that in mind, it's best to stash him on the bench in most fantasy formats until he shows signs of hitting consistently.
Jun 13 2017Buxton is not in the lineup Tuesday against the Mariners, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports.Buxton continues to scuffle at the plate, averaging a strikeout per game in the past 30 contests. He'll hit the bench for a night off, forcing the Twins to deploy an outfield of Eddie Rosario, Max Kepler and Robbie Grossman.
Jun 11 2017Buxton went 2-for-4 with his third home run in Sunday's loss at San Francisco.Buxton had been scuffling with just a .429 OPS in June before Sunday. After a terrible April (.433 OPS), he posted a .701 OPS in May, so there's still hope he can improve in June.
Jun 10 2017Buxton is out of the lineup for Saturday's game against the Giants.Eddie Rosario will take over in center field with Buxton getting a rest day Saturday. Buxton started to come around at the dish in May, but has cooled off considerably in June with a .185/.185/.259 slash line with eight strikeouts in 27 at-bats. He'll likely rejoin the lineup for Sunday's series finale in San Francisco.
Jun 4 2017Buxton is out of the lineup Sunday against the Angels, LaVelle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton suffered a lacerated finger earlier in the week, but it didn't force him to miss any game action, as he had started the subsequent five games, going 4-for-17 with three RBI and two steals. It appears his absence from the lineup Sunday is just for rest purposes. Eddie Rosario will cover center field in Buxton's stead.
May 30 2017Buxton (finger) is in the lineup Tuesday against the Astros, Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com reports.Buxton hurt his finger Monday and had to be pulled from the game with what turned out to be a finger laceration. Fortunately, Buxton won't have to miss any additional time and is starting in center field and hitting eighth Tuesday night.
May 29 2017Buxton had X-rays on his lacerated finger come back negative and believes he could play as early as Tuesday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton got his finger caught up in Eddie Rosario's cleat as the pair of teammates converged on a catch in Monday's game. Consider Buxton day-to-day, as his assessment of his own injury may be optimistic, but it doesn't look like this injury will send him to the disabled list or force him to miss any sort of significant time.
May 29 2017Buxton was removed from Monday's game against the Astros in the bottom of the sixth inning with a lacerated right ring finger, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton hurt the finger when it got caught in the spikes of teammate Eddie Rosario, who slid by Buxton attempting to make a catch. According to Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, the Twins don't view Buxton's injury as anything serious, so the 23-year-old could be back in the lineup Tuesday if he's able to complete batting practice without incident. Ehire Adrianza ended up replacing Buxton in Monday's contest.
May 27 2017Buxton is out of Saturday's lineup against the Rays, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.He is hitting .175/.267/.250 with a 34.8 percent strikeout rate over his last 40 at-bats, and has yet to emerge from his awful funk at the plate. Max Kepler will slide over to center field and hit cleanup while Robbie Grossman joins the fray in right field.
May 21 2017Buxton is not in the lineup for Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader against the Royals.Max Kepler will take over in center field as Buxton rests for the second half of Sunday's twin bill. Buxton went 0-for-2 with a walk and a run in his return to the lineup in Game 1. His next chance to get back in the lineup will come Monday against the Orioles.
May 7 2017Buxton (concussion) is back in the lineup Sunday against the Red Sox, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton has missed back-to-back starts since being lifted from Thursday's game after a collision with the outfield wall, but he has passed concussion tests for multiple days, and will now return to action. He'll bat eighth in the order for the series finale.
May 6 2017Buxton (undisclosed) is not in Saturday's starting lineup against the Red Sox, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports.It will be the second consecutive game Buxton misses after he collided hard with an outfield wall in Thursday's loss. The young outfielder is reportedly doing much better after some minor headaches and plans to test it out by taking some swings and running on the field prior to Saturday's game. He could be available in a reserve role if needed, though the Twins will likely exercise caution with rushing him back to action. Max Kepler slides over to fill the void in center field.
May 6 2017Buxton (head) said that he passed a concussion test for the third day in a row and was available off the bench Saturday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.While he passed the concussion test, he was still experiencing headaches, so he may not be out of the woods just yet. Consider him questionable for Sunday's series finale against the Red Sox.
May 5 2017Buxton (undisclosed) is not in the lineup Friday against the Red Sox, Brandon Warne of Zone Coverage reports.Buxton was removed from Thursday's contest prematurely following a hard collision with the wall. He was able to pass the concussion protocol following his exit, though the Twins are likely holding him out for precautionary reasons. He should be considered day-to-day for now, while more should be known about his status once the Twins provide more information.
May 4 2017Buxton (undisclosed) was removed from Thursday's contest for precautionary reasons and will be re-evaluated Friday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.The young center fielder went through the concussion protocol following his exit, but after going through the program without a hitch, the Twins are considering him day-to-day. No word about his availability Friday has been revealed, but more information should become available following his upcoming evaluation.
May 4 2017Buxton exited in the fifth inning of Thursday's contest with the Athletics after running into the center field wall while making a catch, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.It's unclear if his removal was injury-related or not, but it's certainly not good to see something like this happen just when the former top prospect was finally getting comfortable in the batter's box. Buxton's status should become clearer after the game's conclusion, but in the meantime, Eddie Rosario will slide over to center field to fill the void while Max Kepler rounds out the outfield.
May 3 2017Buxton went 1-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in Tuesday's 9-1 win over the A's.The homer was his first of the season, and his first extra-base hit since April 15. Buxton's now hitting .294/.500/.471 over the last week and has started to get his contact issues under control, striking out only three times (against seven walks) in 17 at-bats during that stretch. It's a small sample to be sure, but Buxton investors who have been patient through his awful first month of the year may finally be seeing some light at the end of the tunnel.
Apr 26 2017Buxton went 2-for-3 with a walk, a run scored, an RBI and a stolen base in Tuesday's 8-1 win over the Rangers.Perhaps most importantly, he didn't strike out. Buxton's now 4-for-11 over his last four games with a 3:4 BB:K, but he'll need to keep working on his contact skills and plate discipline to significantly improve his dreadful .379 OPS.
Apr 23 2017Buxton is not in the lineup Sunday against the Tigers, Chad Graff of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton has shown some improvement the last three games with two hits in eight at-bats, but he still struck out four times. The young outfielder's season-long struggles (6-for-58 with 27 strikeouts) have resulted in him getting more frequent days off, but the Twins have said they aren't yet ready to send him back to the minors for further refinement.
Apr 20 2017Buxton went 0-for-2 with a strikeout in Thursday's loss to Cleveland. Despite hitting just .082 with 24 strikeouts in 49 at-bats, manager Paul Molitor said he's not ready to send him to the minors. "We're not at that point, so I don't want to waste too much time talking about that, but obviously it's not an unexpected question because people are going to wonder," Molitor told the St. Paul Pioneer Press.Buxton has been playing outstanding defense in center field, but he'll need to improve at the plate to stay in the majors and avoid another trip to Triple-A. He's just 1-for-15 with five strikeouts in his last six games.
Apr 17 2017Buxton is not in the lineup Monday against the Indians.Buxton is off to a brutal start, slashing just .093/.152/.140 with 23 strikeouts through 43 at-bats, so he'll get the day off to clear his head as Max Kepler takes over in center field. He'll look to get things on track when he returns to the lineup, which should be Tuesday.
Apr 13 2017Buxton is in the Twins' lineup Thursday, batting ninth and playing center field.Flyball pitcher Phil Hughes takes the mound on Thursday, which probably prompted Minnesota to reinsert the struggling Buxton for defensive purposes after only a one-day breather. The experiment of hitting him third likely was ill-advised and looks to be over, as they hope he'll fix the struggles he displayed during his 2-for-29 start (with 17 strikeouts) with less pressure on him. There's still plenty to like about the 23-year-old's season-long -- and career -- potential, but he'll need to climb out of this hole to increase the optimism over his fantasy value.
Apr 12 2017Buxton is out of the lineup Wednesday against the Tigers, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Eddie Rosario will start in center field against right-hander Michael Fulmer. Buxton has looked completely lost at the dish early on this season, going 2-for-29 with 17 strikeouts to one walk. A recent move down in the batting order (down to the eight-hole) hasn't helped matters. While the 23-year-old has flashed brilliance on the defensive side, and the team has every incentive to let him learn on the job, Buxton will need to show some signs of improvement to justify a regular spot in the lineup.
Apr 11 2017Buxton went 0-for-3 with three strikeouts in Tuesday's 2-1 loss to the Tigers.He was caught looking all three times, twice by Matt Boyd and once by Justin Wilson. Buxton's big finish to last season seems like a distant memory, as he's hitting .069 (2-for-29) to begin 2017 with a shocking 1:17 BB:K. Until he climbs his way out of this slump, the 23-year-old should be far away from any active fantasy rosters.
Apr 8 2017Buxton is batting in the seventh slot for Saturday's game against the White Sox, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.Buxton has hit in the third spot through the first four games this season, but is off to a horrendous 1-for-18 start with 11 strikeouts. Accordingly, with Eduardo Escobar hitting .500, a shuffle was in order. Buxton's speed and defensive abilities will keep him in the starting lineup, but he'll need to improve at the plate if he wants to see more at-bats.
Apr 7 2017Manager Paul Molitor said he won't consider moving Buxton out of the third lineup spot yet, LaVelle E. Neal III of the Star Tribune reports.Buxton is 1-for-14 in the first three games with seven strikeouts. It's a jarringly negative reflection of his whiff issues last year, but a small enough sample size that more patience is required. Still, hitting third may not be the best use of his skills, including his game-breaking speed that could make him an elite source of stolen bases. Expect this setup to continue for at least another week, but if the struggles continue, Buxton may find himself on the move within the lineup.
Apr 3 2017Buxton will bat third against the Royals on Monday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Lefty Danny Duffy is starting for Kansas City. Things had been trending this way for Buxton, with manager Paul Molitor saying late in the spring that the 23-year-old was "too valuable" to bat leadoff. The skipper continued his praise of Buxton on Monday. "The fun has returned," Molitor said. "There's a looseness about it. He's letting it fly." Buxton went 13-for-46 with nine doubles, one homer, two stolen bases and a 5:11 BB:K during the exhibition slate.
Apr 3 2017Buxton went 0-for-5 with three strikeouts while hitting third in the Opening Day lineup against the Royals on Monday.Buxton's combination of power and speed is intriguing enough for manager Paul Molitor to run with him in the third spot, at least to begin the year. This was a rough start, but it's just one game, and Buxton's 10 homers last September (and big spring this year) offer some hope that the post-hype prospect could finally break out in 2017.
Mar 24 2017Buxton will not be the Twins' leadoff hitter this season because his bat is "too valuable" according to manager Paul Molitor, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.Buxton hit third in the spring game prior to Molitor's announcement, and that could be where he winds up come Opening Day. He has been showing solid power (.500 slugging percentage) this spring and his combination of speed and power would be a boon anywhere in the upper half of a lineup. Buxton hit 10 home runs in September alone last year, so it makes sense that the Twins would try and put him in a position to hit with more runners on base.
Mar 13 2017Buxton went 2-for-4 with his first home run of the spring in Sunday's win over Baltimore. He's hitting .273 (6-for-22) during spring training.Buxton has had just five strikeouts in 24 plate appearances. It's a small sample size, but a 20.8 percent strikeout rate would be a significant improvement from the problematic 34.8 percent he's had in the majors. Buxton appears set to begin the season as the starter in center field, but it's not clear where he'll bat in the order. He hit leaddoff Sunday, but may be a better fit lower in the order if the ten home runs he hit in September indicate he'll add more power than on-base ability.
Mar 6 2017Buxton is hitting just 2-for-12 this spring, but has just two strikeouts and two walks.Buxton appears set to begin the season as the starter in center field, but it's not clear where he'll bat in the order. He hit leadoff in Saturday's game that featured most regulars, but he hit ninth much of last season. His September power surge (10 homers and a 1.011 OPS) may indicate he's a better fit for the middle of the lineup despite his speed. Despite his slow start to the spring, there's a silver lining with his strikeout rate as he whiffed in 35.6 percent of his plate appearances last season. He'll need to command the strike zone better to finally have a breakout season.
Oct 3 2016Buxton went 2-for-4 with a double and an inside-the-park home run in Sunday's 6-3 win over the White Sox. He also scored two runs, drove in two runs and walked.Buxton laced the first pitch of the game over the head of center fielder Leury Garcia, racing around the bases in 14.05 seconds for the season's fastest inside-the-park home run. Buxton's speed has been on display all year in center field, but it did not translate to many stolen bases (10). The 22-year-old is still developing as a hitter, for he finished the season at .225/.284/.430 with a 35.6 percent strikeout rate in 331 plate appearances. He'll look to build off a strong final month that saw him bat .287/.357/.653 with nine home runs from Sept. 1 onward.
Oct 1 2016Buxton went 1-for-3 with a two-run homer, a walk and three runs in Saturday's win over the White Sox.After hitting just .193 with one homer in his first 63 games this year, Buxton's finishing the season strong by batting .277 with seven homers, 18 RBI and a .936 OPS in September. At just 22 years old, the former phenom still has time to significantly change from the struggle his first two years have been overall. He showed good isolated power this year (with eight homers in under 300 at-bats), but still needs to improve extremely low contact and walk rates, and a high strikeout rate. A promotion to the top part of the lineup would help Buxton's outlook next year -- perhaps he'll get that after his strong finish this year.
Sep 30 2016Buxton went 2-for-3 with a triple and a walk in Thursday's win over Kansas City.Buxton is hitting .286/.343/.615 with seven home runs and two triples in September. It looks like he's finally figured out how to hit in the majors after hitting .193 with a .561 OPS before September. Still, it's just one month, but his display of power could foreshadow a breakout season in 2017.
Sep 18 2016Buxton is hitting sixth in Sunday's lineup against the Mets, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. He went 2-for-5 with his seventh home run in Saturday's extra-inning loss.Buxton continues his hot September with his sixth home run of the month. He's hitting .333 with a 1.141 OPS in' September. He's hit ninth most of the year, so his move up the order shows the Twins may have confidence he's finally turned the corner in the majors after struggling before September.
Sep 8 2016Buxton went 2-for-4 with a double, a homer and two runs scored Wednesday against the Royals.Since joining the roster as a September call-up, Buxton's been rapidly regaining all the allure he lost with his MLB struggles last season and earlier this year. Over seven games, he's gone 12-for-26 with four doubles, four homers, 10 RBI and 10 runs -- now that's what we're looking for from a guy who was for a time considered the game's top prospect. He's likely still available as a waiver add in a lot of yearly leagues.
Sep 5 2016Buxton went 3-for-4 with this third home run in four games in Sunday's loss to the White Sox.Has Buxton finally turned the corner in the majors? It's just a small sample size, but he's 9-for-16 with three home runs and one strikeout in his last four games since returning from Triple-A.
Sep 3 2016Buxton went 3-for-4 with a home run and two doubles in Saturday's win over the White Sox.Buxton is 6-for-10 with two home runs in three games since returning from Triple-A. He also doesn't have a strikeout which has been his biggest issue in the majors (35.7 percent strikeout rate). Still, we'll need to see him continue to play well in September to believe he's finally turned the corner in the majors.
Sep 1 2016Buxton went 1-for-3 with a three-run homer in his first game back in the majors against the White Sox on Thursday.He may still own a pathetic .195 average, but Buxton is also just 22 and has hit .305/.359/.568 through 49 Triple-A games this year. His adjustment to MLB pitching has been gradual, but the former No. 1 overall prospect will go a long way toward raising his stock for next season if he can carry Thursday's production forward into a strong month of September.
Aug 31 2016Buxton has been called up from Triple-A Rochester, the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle reports.Buxton will join the Twins with expanded rosters in September. He responded well at Triple-A after he was demoted with five home runs and a .823 OPS in 19 games in August. With Danny Santana on the DL and Robby Grossman hindered by an oblique injury, Buxton could get regular playing time in September.
Aug 20 2016Buxton is out of the lineup for Triple-A Rochester on Saturday due to flu-like symptoms, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.He pinch ran on Friday, but has been out of the lineup since Tuesday due to the illness. There is really not much Buxton can do at Triple-A to change people's opinions of him, as he has always dominated at that level (.986 OPS in 2015, .943 OPS in 2016) but his success has yet to translate to the big leagues. He should join the Twins when rosters expand in September. It is worth remembering that he won't turn 23 until December, which makes him two years younger than the likes of Aaron Judge and Josh Bell, both of whom Buxton already has more big league experience than.
Aug 6 2016Buxton is not in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Rays, according to Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.Buxton went 0-for-6 with three strikeouts over his last two games, so he will be held out Saturday in favor of Eddie Rosario, who homered Friday night and is 8-for-16 (.500) this month.
Aug 4 2016Buxton (knee) is back in the lineup, hitting ninth and manning center field Thursday against the Indians, Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press reports.The speedy center fielder will return after a three-game absence with the knee injury. It's been a very disappointing season for Buxton, who entered the season as a consensus top-two prospect in baseball. The speed and gold glove caliber center field defense has been on display, but his .199/.254/.325 slash line and 36.3 percent K-rate are cause for pessimism. Nonetheless, he should be a good source of steals down the stretch, and has enough talent to salvage things at the plate in 2017.
Aug 3 2016Buxton (knee) remains out of the lineup Wednesday against the Indians, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.While Buxton was supposedly available to pinch hit in Tuesday's game, and manager Paul Molitor said he considered sending in his speedy center fielder as a pinch runner late in that game, he is still not ready to return to the lineup Wednesday. Given Buxton's injury history, there is no reason for the Twins to deploy him until he is 100 percent healthy. Eddie Rosario will get the start in center field while Danny Santana starts in left Wednesday.
Aug 2 2016Buxton (knee) remains out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Indians.According to Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press, Buxton plans on testing his knee out before the game to see if he'll be available off the bench Tuesday. He injured his knee in Sunday's game against the White Sox but was initially listed on the lineup card the following day before ultimately being scratched. If he is available off the bench Tuesday, it'll be a step in the right direction towards returning to the lineup as early as Wednesday. Eddie Rosario will take his spot in center field Tuesday.
Aug 1 2016Buxton (knee) is in the lineup Monday against the Indians.Buxton was lifted from Sunday's game in the third inning due to knee soreness, but the issue is not considered serious after an MRI on Monday morning cleared him of any structural damage. Buxton will man his usual center field spot Monday, and he'll bat eighth against Cleveland's Danny Salazar.
Aug 1 2016Updating a previous note, Buxton (knee) is not in the Twins' lineup Monday against the Indians.Buxton was initially listed in a lineup, but the Twins have since clarified that the speedy center fielder will get the day off Monday as he deals with soreness in his knee. Buxton underwent an MRI on Monday morning, which revealed only a minor bruise, so he'll join the team in Cleveland and could be available as a bench option. Eddie Rosario will get the nod in center field to start.
Jul 31 2016Buxton will remain in Minnesota on Monday so he can undergo an MRI on his sore right knee, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.The team currently has an optimistic outlook about their young outfielder's ailment, but Buxton will undergo further tests nonetheless to ensure nothing more serious is hidden. As long as the results come back clean, which is the expected outcome, Buxton should be able to rejoin the team in Cleveland later in the week.
Jul 31 2016The Twins diagnosed Buxton with a sore right knee following his departure in the third inning of Sunday's game against the White Sox, LaVelle Neal of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton is being labeled as day-to-day, and although his injury appears minor, it may be more of a setback for the outfielder than most players. He had already hurt the same knee twice in one week after banging into the outfield wall prior to the All-Star break, so the fact that the right knee is bothering him again just over two weeks later is somewhat discouraging. The Twins may be inclined to give Buxton a few days off to rest the injury, in which case Robbie Grossman, Danny Santana or Eddie Rosario, who replaced Buxton on Sunday, could see more action in center field.
Jul 31 2016Buxton appeared to tweak his leg while running the bases in Sunday's game against the White Sox. He was removed from the contest in the top of the third inning.After walking during his lone plate appearance in the second inning, Buxton easily stole second base, but not before injuring himself in the process. Though he was initially able to stay in the game, he was clearly hobbled as he ran to third base on a ground ball and was replaced at the top half of the next inning by Eddie Rosario. The Twins should have a formal diagnosis of Buxton's condition after the game.
Jul 27 2016Buxton is out of Wednesday's lineup against the Braves.It's hard to understand why the Twins insist on giving Buxton a day or two off each week, especially when it Robbie Grossman, Eddie Rosario and Danny Santana are the three players starting over him in the outfield. He has 14 strikeouts in his last 28 at-bats, so that obviously has something to do with it, but so far unpredictable playing time has not helped him improve on his contact issues.
Jul 21 2016Buxton is out of the lineup for Thursday's series opener against Boston, LaVelle E. Neal of the Star Tribune reports.Buxton will get a regular day off after starting the past three games against the Tigers and recently coming back from a knee injury. In his place, Eddie Rosario will man center while batting in the nine spot. Buxton will likely be back in the lineup for Friday's contest.
Jul 17 2016Buxton is out of the lineup Sunday against the Indians.Buxton recently returned from a knee injury suffered prior to the All-Star break, and with Saturday's game going 11 innings, it looks like manager Paul Molitor just wanted to give the 22-year-old a breather. Danny Santana will cover center field in Buxton's stead.
Jul 15 2016Buxton (knee) is back in the lineup Friday against the Indians.The 22-year-old was carted off the field last week after a collision with the outfield wall, leading many to fear the worst. However, X-rays were negative and an MRI later confirmed that Buxton's knee is fine structurally. He will slot back into center field and the nine-hole against right-hander Carlos Carrasco after missing just two starts, and the last-place Twins figure to continue giving Buxton regular time in the second half despite his disappointing performance so far this season.
Jul 10 2016Buxton (knee) is out of the lineup for Sunday's matchup against Texas, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton's MRI on Saturday revealed a bone bruise on his right knee so he'll expectedly get a rest day as Eddie Rosario makes the start in center and bats seventh. It's likely Buxton will be good to go following the four-day All-Star Break. The 22-year-old has struggled in the first half of the season but has shown some signs of life the past seven games, slashing .348/.400/.609 over 23 at-bats.
Jul 9 2016Buxton (knee) is out of Saturday's lineup, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.He suffered a bruised knee in Friday's game and was set for an MRI Saturday, although the results are still unknown. Danny Santana will start in center field and bat ninth against the Rangers. It would not be surprising if Buxton was held out through the All-Star break.
Jul 9 2016Buxton's MRI confirmed a bone bruise in his right knee, as there was no structural damage, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.He is out of Saturday's lineup, making way for Danny Santana to start in center field and hit ninth. Buxton will apparently be available soon, although with just one more game before the All-Star break, they may opt to hold him out until the start of the second half.
Jul 8 2016Buxton was carted off the field Friday after crashing into the center field wall, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.The exact nature and full extent of the issue have not yet been disclosed, but it looked like a potentially serious right leg injury for Buxton. It appeared as though he couldn't put any weight on the leg after almost making a fantastic catch to rob Rougned Odor of extra bases in the first inning. Expect an update when the Twins provide more information.
Jul 8 2016Buxton left Friday's game in the first inning with a right knee contusion, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.It was easy to fear the worst after Buxton was carted off the field following a collision with the outfield wall, but it seems he may have avoided a serious injury. The Twins could opt to send Buxton for additional tests to confirm the extent of the injury, but for now, they're labeling him as day-to-day with merely a bruised knee.
Jul 8 2016Buxton (knee) will have an MRI Saturday morning, but he's optimistic that he only suffered a bruise in Friday's game, the Star Tribune's Phil Miller reports.He was limping postgame, but manager Paul Molitor said Buxton was doing better postgame than he was after the collision with the wall, so the team has some optimism. Buxton has had a checkered injury history, and indeed this is the same knee that he banged into the outfield wall last Friday. Look for his status to be updated Saturday, but it would be surprising if he returned to action before the All-Star break.
Jul 6 2016Although Buxton is not in Wednesday's lineup against Oakland he is available off the bench, Brandon Wayne of Cold Omaha reports. He went 2-for-3 with a walk in Tuesday's win over the A's.Buxton missed three games after becoming sore and sustaining cuts on his arm after running into the outfield wall in Friday's game. He ran into the wall again Tuesday to make a catch, so he could be sore again. However, Buxton may not see regular playing time with the Twins trying to find at-bats for four outfielders and Danny Santana as a utility player with Eddie Rosario back in the majors. Hopefully the Twins will give Buxton regular playing time as he had one of his best games Tuesday.
Jul 6 2016Buxton (undisclosed) is not in Wednesday's lineup against the A's, Brandon Warne of Cold Omaha reports.Buxton has missed the previous three games since running into the outfield wall during Friday's game. The team hasn't provided much in the way of an update, so continue to consider Buxton day-to-day until further notice. The Twins will go with Eddie Rosario in center field Wednesday.
Jul 5 2016Buxton, listed as day-to-day, is sout of the lineup for Tuesday's contest against the Athletics.Buxton, who was on a four-game hitting streak before running into the outfield wall Friday, will miss his third consecutive game Tuesday. He should return to the lineup in center field as soon as he's fully healthy.
Jul 4 2016Buxton is out of the lineup Monday due to general soreness after running into the outfield wall Friday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton is available off the bench. He was also out of Sunday's starting lineup due to the issue.
Jul 3 2016Buxton is out of the lineup Sunday against the Rangers, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.Buxton's streak of five consecutive starts will come to an end, as the newly-recalled Eddie Rosario will receive an opportunity to play. The 22-year-old has recorded at least one hit in seven of his last nine starts, but he's yet to truly get hot, with only one of those games being multi-hit efforts.
Jul 1 2016Buxton went 1-for-3 in Thursday's loss to the White Sox and is hitting just .193. However, GM Terry Ryan says he's content leaving Buxton in the lineup despite his struggles at the plate due to his strong glove. "[People] probably equate his progress with the bat only. But his defense, that helps us here," Ryan told the Minneapolis Star Tribune.Buxton continues to struggle to make contact as he has 33 strikeouts in 86 at-bats in June and just four walks. However, it sounds like the Twins are going to give him extended time in the majors to improve.
Jun 26 2016Buxton is out of the lineup Sunday against the Yankees, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.The Twins continue to commit to Buxton as an everyday option in center field, but he'll be rested following a string of five straight starts in which he went an unremarkable 3-for-16 with six strikeouts. The 22-year-old's on-base percentage now sits at a mediocre .233 for the season, and manager Paul Molitor may have no choice but to tighten his leash on Buxton if the outfielder fails to make major strides in his next few starting chances. Danny Santana is covering center field in Buxton's stead Sunday.
Jun 17 2016Buxton will remain the Twins' starting center fielder with Danny Santana taking on more of a utility role, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Although Buxton has gotten back into some bad habits of late -- he's 4-for-his-last-35 -- the Twins aren't going anywhere and they seem content to let Buxton work through some growing pains in what amounts to a lost season. He figures to remain stuck in the nine-hole for the foreseeable future.
Jun 16 2016Updating on a previous report, Buxton was not optioned to Triple-A Rochester following Thursday's game, Phil Mackey of ESPN 1500 in the Twin Cities reports.It was reported after Thursday's game that Buxton was sent down after the Twins activated Danny Santana, but the actual roster move was the organization designating Oswaldo Arcia for assignment. Buxton will remain on the active roster.
Jun 16 2016Buxton was optioned to Triple-A Rochester after Thursday's loss to the Yankees, Phill Miller of the Star Tribune reports.Buxton's struggles at the plate continued Thursday with an 0-for-4 performance that included three strikeouts. With Danny Santana (hamstring) ready to come off the disabled list, the Twins sent their scuffling prospect back to the minors. Buxton hit just .241 with 21 strikeouts in 58 at-bats during his recent 16-game stint with the big league club.
Jun 13 2016Buxton hit a solo home run, his first, in Monday's win over the Angels.Buxton is still hitting a brutal .207/.245/.359 as he struggles to find his way at the major league level, but at least he is finally on the home run board. He homered twice in 46 games last year and is likely a few years away from tapping into any real power. And until he resolves his awful 40:4 K:BB, he's not going to be a worthwhile fantasy player, either.
Jun 5 2016Buxton went 3-for-4 with a triple and an RBI in Sunday's game against the Rays.The heavily-hyped young outfielder has struggled for much of his time in the Major Leagues, but he seems to be figuring things out at the plate, as he has hit at a .435 clip with three runs scored, two RBI and a stolen base during his six-game hitting streak since being promoted. He notably also went without a strikeout for just the third time this season. The sample size is small, but the fact that Buxton is enjoying his first taste of success at this level bears watching from fantasy owners.
Jun 4 2016Buxton went 2-for-4 with a triple in Friday's loss to Tampa Bay. He's 5-for-15 in four games since being recalled from Triple-A.Buxton is still striking out too much as he has five strikeouts and no walks in his last four games. Still, his last few games should keep him in the lineup awhile, but ultimately he's going to need to make more contact to succeed in the majors.
May 31 2016Buxton will start in center field and bat ninth Tuesday against the A's, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.With Danny Santana (hamstring) landing back on the DL, Buxton has returned to the big-league roster, and he appears poised to serve as the regular center fielder in Santana's absence. The 22-year-old exploded for a .336/.403/.603 line with Triple-A Rochester following his demotion (11:26 BB:K), but it looks like he will be stuck batting ninth for the foreseeable future with Eduardo Nunez and Brian Dozier occupying the top two spots in the order.
May 30 2016Buxton will rejoin the Twins on Tuesday, Dustin Morse of Twins.com reports.Buxton will return from Triple-A Rochester to assume the roster spot of Danny Santana, who was placed on the disabled list after departing Monday's game with a hamstring strain. In 17 games for Minnesota earlier in the season, the top prospect struggled at the plate, slashing just .156/.208/.289 before being sent back down to Rochester. Buxton, who hit .209 win 46 major league games in 2015, has straightened things out at Triple-A, hitting .333 with 14 RBI and 17 extra-base hits across 114 at-bats.
May 14 2016Buxton was removed from his game Saturday with Triple-A Rochester due to a minor back issue, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.It appears the Twins were just acting cautiously by pulling Buxton from the game, so it's not believed that the injury will dramatically delay his quest to return to the big leagues. He was hitting well at Triple-A entering play Saturday, slashing .313/.368/.513 with three homers and two steals across 80 at-bats in the minors.
May 9 2016Buxton went 1-for-4 with his third home run in six games Sunday for Triple-A Rochester. He's hitting .276/.344/.534 in 14 games since he was sent to Rochester.Buxton began the season as Minnesota's starting center fielder, but struggled to make contact hitting .156 with a 24:2 K:BB ratio in 45 at-bats. It looks like he's finally turning his season around at Triple-A as he has six walks in 58 at-bats. The Twins may let Buxton gain confidence at Triple-A for several months before bringing him back to the majors again.
Apr 25 2016The Twins have optioned Buxton to Triple-A, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.After 17 games, the Twins have decided to give Buxton time at Triple-A Rochester to try and straighten things out at the plate. With a .156/.208/.289 line, two RBI, and two steals this season, the struggles he experienced upon arrival to Minnesota last season have carried over into 2016. It's reasonable to think that he'll spend a few weeks in the minors before he's on the radar for a return to the big club.
Apr 24 2016Buxton went 1-for-5 with four strikeouts in Sunday's extra inning loss to the Nationals. He's hitting just .156 (7-for-45) with 24 strikeouts and two walks.Buxton struggled to make contact in his short time in the majors last season with a 32 percent strikeout rate in 129 at-bats, but he's been worse this season with a 53 percent strikeout rate. It's possible the Twins could send him to the minors soon as he may need some time in Triple-A after spending little time at that level last season.
Apr 23 2016Buxton is out of the lineup Saturday, the Star Tribune's LaVelle Neal reports.Few MLB hitters are scuffling at the plate to the extent that Buxton is, and he had a non-competitive at-bat with the bases loaded Friday, where he struck out on three pitches. He has seven strikeouts and two hits (both for extra bases) over his last 14 at-bats, and could be nearing a demotion to Triple-A. Max Kepler, a prospect with less upside, but perhaps more polish, will get the start in center field and hit seventh Saturday.
Apr 20 2016Buxton isn't in the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Brewers, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton will take a seat while Eddie Rosario gets the nod in center field and Oswaldo Arcia starts in left. The 22-year-old went 1-for-7 with a triple over the past two games, coming off a hand injury that kept him out for three games. Buxton has struck out at a 42.9 percent clip through the Twins' first 14 games of the 2016 season.
Apr 18 2016Buxton is in the lineup for Monday's game against the Brewers, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.Buxton did not start the last three games due to a hand injury, but he was able to log a couple at-bats Sunday off the bench, and is now back in the starting lineup. He will man center field and hit ninth against Brewers starter Chase Anderson.
Apr 17 2016Buxton (hand) isn't in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Angels, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.It's the third game in a row Buxton has missed after getting hit in the hand Thursday. Fortunately for the young outfielder, it doesn't look like the hand injury will result in a DL stint, as Buxton has come off the bench as a defensive replacement or pinch-runner in each of the last three games. Buxton was able to resume taking batting practice Saturday, so he could be cleared to start again as soon as Monday's series opener with the Brewers.
Apr 17 2016Buxton (hand) entered Sunday's win over the Angels as a pinch runner in the eighth inning and went 0-for-2 with a stolen base when the game went to extra innings.Buxton had been out since Thursday after being hit by a pitch on the hand. It looks like he could return to the lineup Monday.
Apr 16 2016Buxton (hand) took batting practice prior to Saturday's game, but he is not yet ready to get back into the Twins' lineup, the Star Tribune's Phil Miller reports.Manager Paul Molitor said Buxton's hand is a little better after getting hit by a pitch in Thursday's game, but the Twins are taking a cautious approach with the return of their top prospect. Adding insult to injury, the Twins signed David Murphy to a minor league contract this week, and the expectation is that if Buxton doesn't improve his approach, he could be ticketed for Triple-A Rochester in the near future to try to get in rhythm at the plate, with Murphy taking his spot on the 25-man roster.
Apr 16 2016Buxton is not in the lineup Saturday against the Angels, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton was hit on the hand by a pitch Thursday and will remain out of the lineup for the second straight game. He was hoping to be available as a pinch hitter and/or runner on Friday but did not enter the game. Buxton could be available in the same capacity Saturday.
Apr 15 2016Buxton (hand) is not in the lineup for Friday's game against the Angels.The official diagnosis for Buxton is a left hand contusion, the result of being hit by a Mat Latos pitch in the third inning of Thursday's game. X-rays on the hand were returned negative. Eddie Rosario will shift over to center field to replace Buxton on Friday, opening the door for Oswaldo Arcia in left. Injury aside, Buxton has had a rough go of it so far this season, recording four hits (two doubles) while striking out 13 times in 26 plate appearances.
Apr 15 2016Buxton (hand) is hoping to available as a pinch runner or defensive replacement Friday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.X-rays on Buxton's hand were negative after he was hit by a pitch Thursday, but he admitted Friday that the hand still stings when swinging against live pitching. It sounds like Buxton may be available in some capacity Friday, but it's uncertain if he will be able to start at all in the series against the Angels. He will probably need to pick it up at the plate upon his return to avoid a trip back to the minors.
Apr 14 2016X-rays on Buxton's hand came back negative Thursday and he is considered day-to-day, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. He was officially diagnosed with a left hand contusion.This news comes as a major relief as Buxton was removed from Thursday's game in the fourth inning after being hit by a pitch on the hand. He was able to stay in initially and steal a base, but Max Kepler came in to replace him in center field the following inning. He's considered day-to-day, and his status going into Friday's game will likely hinge on the pain levels in his hand and his ability to grip a bat.
Apr 14 2016Buxton left Thursday's game after being hit by a pitch on the hand, Dan Hayes of CSN Chicago reports.Max Kepler came on to replace Buxton in the top of the fourth inning Thursday after the Twins were retired in the bottom of the third. Buxton was hit in the hand by a Mat Latos offering and was able to stay in and steal a base, but manager Paul Molitor opted to take him out of the game thereafter. There's no word yet on the severity of Buxton's injury, but Kepler would be a likely replacement for him in center if Buxton is to miss time.
Apr 14 2016X-rays on Buxton's hand came back negative Thursday and he is considered day-to-day, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports.This news comes as a major relief as Buxton was removed from Thursday's game in the fourth inning after being hit by a pitch on the hand. He was able to stay in initially and steal a base, but Max Kepler came in to replace him in center field the following inning. He's considered day-to-day, and his status going into Friday's game will likely hinge on the pain levels in his hand and his ability to grip a bat.
Apr 14 2016Buxton could be on the hot seat, following Thursday's signing of David Murphy to a minor league deal.He is striking out at a 52 percent clip in the early going, and it's possible the Twins will option him to Triple-A Rochester for a spell to help him get his confidence back and work on his approach. Those who own Buxton in season-long leagues are right to be a little worried, but the best thing for his development may be five-to-six week run with Rochester.
Apr 9 2016Buxton is out of the lineup for Saturday's game against the Royals.The Twins will use a heavily left-handed lineup Saturday against righty Ian Kennedy, who is making his season debut after having his first start pushed back due to hamstring tightness. Buxton is always an option to come in as a pinch-runner if the situation calls for it, but he shouldn't be counted upon in fantasy lineups Saturday. The switch hitting Danny Santana will take Buxton's post in center field.
Apr 7 2016Buxton went 2-for-4 with two doubles in Wednesday's loss at Baltimore.Buxton was 0-for-3 with three strikeouts in his first game, which is a worry since he struggled to make contact last season (just 66 percent contact rate and a 44:6 K:BB ratio in 129 at-bats). Buxton is hitting ninth in the order and could move to leadoff if he shows more command of the strike zone.
Apr 5 2016Buxton started in center field and went 0-for-3 with three strikeouts in Monday's loss to Baltimore.It's only one game but the strikeouts are not a promising sign as he struggled to make contact last season (just 66 percent contact rate and a 44:6 K:BB ratio in 129 at-bats). Hopefully the Twins will be patient with their top prospect if he struggles early in the season.
Mar 26 2016Buxton is certain to begin the season as Minnesota's starting center fielder with Darin Mastroianni and Carlos Quentin sent to the minors, along with the earlier release of Ryan Sweeney, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton is hitting just .243 (9-for-37) with 12 strikeouts and just three walks. However, the Twins are looking past his spring numbers given that he'll offer outstanding defense in center field and since he's the top prospect in the organization. He'll likely begin the season hitting ninth in the batting order, but could move to the leadoff spot quickly if he has success at the plate.
Mar 20 2016Buxton (illness) returned to action and went 1-for-3 with a double in Sunday's spring training loss to the Yankees. He's hitting just .217 (5-for-23) this spring.Despite some struggles at the plate this spring and missing a few days to an illness, all signs still point toward Buxton beginning the season as Minnesota's starting center fielder. There has been little talk of any other candidate taking over the starting center field job.
Mar 18 2016Buxton returned to baseball activity Friday after dealing with an illness, Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press reports.Buxton missed a couple of days with an illness, but it was never considered serious, and he made his return to the practice field Friday. Expect Buxton to return to game action within the next handful of days.
Mar 16 2016Buxton was scratched from Wednesday's lineup due to illness, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.This shouldn't have an impact on his fantasy value as long as it doesn't develop into something more serious. Buxton is hitting just .200/.261/.300 through eight games this spring, but he is slotted to be the starting center fielder come Opening Day.
Mar 8 2016Buxton went 1-for-3 in Monday's spring training win over Baltimore. He's 2-for-10 in four games this spring.Buxton is the leading candidate to start in center field and will likely win the job unless he really struggles this spring. If Buxton begins the season in the minors, the Twins could begin the season with Danny Santana as a stopgap or move Eddie Rosario to center field. However, so far all the talk from management is of Buxton winning the role.
Dec 9 2015Butxon could begin the 2016 season in the minors, manager Paul Molitor told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "There will be a question about whether Triple-A at-bats are needed for him to start the season or will he make an impression that will be so favorable that we will lean to go with him right out of the chute," Molitor said in remarks to the media at the MLB winter meetings.It seems unlikely that Buxton would begin the season in the minors given that the Twins traded away Aaron Hicks this winter, but he did struggle in his first exposure to the majors last season. Buxton hit just .209 with a .576 OPS in the majors and looked overmatched as he was often lost and free swinging at the plate. He had an ugly 6:44 K:BB ratio in stark contrast to his minor league career where he showed impressive control of the strike zone. Eddie Rosario could begin the season in center field, but the odds are still high that Buxton wins the job in spring training as the organization's top prospect.
Sep 30 2015Buxton is starting and batting ninth in the first half of Wednesday's double-header against the Indians, according to Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com.In 42 games this season, Buxton is hitting for a .207/.244/.306 slash line with one home run and four RBI. He replaces Aaron Hicks in center field for the first game of the double-header.
Sep 30 2015Buxton went 2-for-4 with his second homer of the year in the first half of Wednesday's doubleheader against Cleveland.Not long ago considered baseball's top prospect, Buxton has struggled with injury and ineffectiveness in his rookie year, but he's hit both of his homers in the last three days, so he's showing a little bit of promise at the end here as the Twins work toward a wild-card spot.
Sep 18 2015Buxton is not in the lineup Friday against the Angels.Whereas some other top prospects like Carlos Correa and Corey Seager have hit the ground running following their promotions to the majors, Buxton has been slow to get up to speed at the highest level. Since his return to Minnesota in mid-August, Buxton has gone just 16-for-78 (.205 average) with five doubles, three walks and 24 strikeouts. His absence Friday marks his third straight.
Sep 13 2015Buxton is out of Sunday's lineup against the White Sox.Buxton will now sit for the second time in three games in favor of Aaron Hicks in center field. Given his level of production with the team so far (.189/.232/.255 so far this season), it's quite possible he and Hicks will continue to split the duties in center moving forward.
Sep 11 2015Buxton is out of the lineup Friday against the White Sox.Given Buxton's .192/.229/.260 slash line with the Twins this season, it's not a big surprise that he's starting to receive more days off. Aaron Hicks will start in center field in his place, batting leadoff for the Twins.
Sep 4 2015Buxton is not in the lineup Friday, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton will get the night off, as the Twins go with Aaron Hicks in center field. He'll be flanked by Eddie Rosario in left and Torii Hunter in right.
Aug 29 2015Buxton moved to ninth in the batting order and went 0-for-3 in Saturday's loss to Houston.Buxton had hit leadoff in all eight games since he was called up from Triple-A, but his struggles at the plate (9-for-41) moved him to ninth in the order. The Twins will likely continue to start him in center field while he gets comfortable in the majors, but he'll likely need to get hot to return to the leadoff role.
Aug 23 2015Buxton went 2-for-4 with a double and his first career RBI in Saturday's win over Baltimore.Buxton has hit leadoff in all three games since he was called up from Triple-A and is 5-for-15. It looks like he'll stay in the leadoff spot despite his struggles in his first trip in the majors (He hit just .189 in 11 games in June).
Aug 20 2015Buxton is in the lineup Thursday as the leadoff hitter, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports.Buxton was recalled from Triple-A on Wednesday, taking the roster spot of Aaron Hicks, who was placed on the DL with a hamstring injury. Thursday will mark his return to the big leagues after missing more than six weeks with a thumb injury. He figures to serve as the Twins' near-everyday center fielder, though it remains to be seen whether he'll entrench himself as the leadoff man after primarily batting ninth during his first stint with the Twins earlier this season.
Aug 19 2015Buxton has been recalled from Triple-A Rochester, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton will return to the Twins a little more than a week after he was activated from the DL and assigned to Triple-A Rochester. Buxton, who missed roughly six weeks with a thumb sprain, struggled in his first taste of major league action earlier this season, hitting only .189/.231/.270 with five RBI in 11 games. Aaron Hicks (hamstring) was placed on the 15-day DL on Wednesday, so Buxton figures to take over as the everyday center fielder.
Aug 10 2015Buxton (thumb) was activated from the 15-day disabled list and optioned to Triple-A Rochester on Monday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton didn't exactly take the league by storm in his first major league stint, batting just .189/.231/.270 with no home runs and just five RBI in 11 games with the Twins. The club recalled Aaron Hicks following Buxton's placement on the disabled list, and Hicks has played well enough to keep the starting center field job. As a result, Buxton will return to Triple-A for now, but could return to the club if an injury occurs or when the rosters expand in September.
Aug 6 2015Buxton (thumb) will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Rochester on Friday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton is nearly six weeks removed from a left thumb sprain, and he's recently been rehabbing at the team's facility in Florida. He'll join the Triple-A club at Rochester on Friday and figures to require several rehab games before rejoining the Twins sometime in mid-August.
Aug 5 2015Buxton (thumb) could join Triple-A Rochester as soon as Friday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Now close to six weeks removed from suffering a left thumb sprain, Buxton has been taking part in simulated games down in Florida and it sounds like he will officially begin a minor league rehab assignment with Rochester at some point this weekend. Twins manager Paul Molitor said Buxton will remain with Rochester as it continues on to Buffalo next week.
Jul 29 2015Buxton (thumb) will take batting practice Thursday before reporting to the team's facility in Fort Myers to play in simulated games, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.The Twins are exercising caution in bringing Buxton back, and he's still without a firm timetable. After simulated games, the plan is to send him out on a rehab assignment but it's unclear how many rehab games he'll require. The Twins remain hopeful that Buxton will be ready sometime in August, but he may not return to the big league club until rosters expand in September.
Jul 23 2015Buxton (thumb) could begin baseball activities within the next week, MLB.com reports.Buxton is making progress as he works back from a sprained left thumb, and he's close to being able to swing a bat and play catch. "The pain has subsided, which is good, and the flexibility has increased," GM Terry Ryan said. "Hopefully in the very near future we'll be able to get to some baseball." Buxton has been on the DL since June 26 and was initially given a four-to-six-week timetable.
Jul 21 2015Buxton (thumb) will be reevaluated this week and the Twins are hopeful that he could resume baseball activities by the weekend, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.Buxton hadn't been cleared to resume baseball activities as of Sunday, but this week's round of evaluation by the team's medical staff should go a long way towards getting a more clear outlook on his status. Still, Buxton will likely need a good amount of at-bats and time on the field on a rehab assignment once he is cleared and resumes baseball activities.
Jul 19 2015Buxton (thumb) still hasn't been cleared to resume full baseball activities, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.He was waiting last week for the inflammation to subside in his injured thumb and it sounds like that's still the case. Buxton suffered the injury on June 23 while sliding headfirst into second base. It was initially thought he'd be out 4-6 week, but it may be eight weeks or more since he'll likely need a week or two of a rehab stint before being activated from the DL once he begins baseball activities.
Jun 26 2015Buxton was placed on the 15-day DL with a left thumb sprain, retroactive to June 25.Buxton apparently injured his thumb while sliding head first. With his return around the All-Star break, it's possible he may not be back until after the break is over on July 17 to give him extra time.
Jun 26 2015Buxton could miss four-to-six weeks due to a left thumb sprain, LaVelle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton's thumb injury sent him to the disabled list Friday (retroactive to June 25), and it sounds like he could miss much longer than the minimal amount of time. The Twins will likely turn to a combination of Shane Robinson and Danny Santana in center field in Buxton's absence.
Jun 22 2015Buxton went 1-for-3 with his first career stolen base Sunday against the Cubs.The hit was the rookie's first in four games and he will not have the chance to further showcase his much-heralded speed if he doesn't start hitting. The Twins are expected to show patience with the former top prospect and his talent alone will keep him on the field as he attempts to get going at the major league level.
Jun 16 2015Buxton went 1-for-3 and was caught attempting to steal second base in Tuesday's loss to the Cardinals.He attempted the steal against Yadier Molina and Matt Belisle in the eighth inning. The Twins have used Buxton as their No. 9 hitter in each of his first three games, and he's started his career with a 2-for-10 mark that includes a triple and a pair of runs scored to begin his big league career.
Jun 14 2015Buxton went 0-for-4 with a pair of strikeouts in his much-anticipated major league debut Sunday against the Rangers, but he did score the game-winning run in the top of the ninth inning.The 21-year-old didn't have much success at the plate and actually reached base in the ninth on a botched sacrifice bunt attempt, but was able to showcase his speed as he then scored from first on a double into the gap. Big things lay ahead for Buxton and his fantasy owners, but patience is the best policy with the youngster as he adjusts to life in the major leagues.
Jun 14 2015Buxton is in Sunday's starting lineup at Texas in center field and batting ninth, ESPN 1500 am Twin Cities reports.Buxton was called up from Double-A Chattanooga before the game. As Minnesota's top prospect and arguably the top prospect in baseball, he'll get every chance to keep the center field job. He'll also likely be moved to the top of the order after a few weeks if he's holding his own at the plate.
Jun 13 2015Buxton was recalled by the Twins on Saturday, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.Buxton was the top prospect in the minor leagues prior to his call up, and should now be universally owned in all formats. He had an eight-game hitting streak with 14 hits, four steals, four strikeouts and six walks with Double-A Chattanooga over that span, so the Twins were compelled to reward him and their fans by promoting him to the big leagues. Look for him to play everyday in center field going forward, offering elite tools across the board.
May 3 2015Buxton went 3-for-5 for Double-A Chattanooga Saturday and is 8-for-13 in his last three games to improve to .284/.359/.494 with two home runs and seven stolen bases in 21 games.After a slow start to the season, Buxton is finally heating up. He still has time to be promoted early in the year if he can stay hot at Double-A.
Mar 15 2015Buxton was reassigned to Minnesota's minor league camp on Sunday, Phil Miller of the Star Tribune reports.Buxton went 1-for-8 during his short stint with the Twins but more importantly needs more time in the minors since he's only ever played one game above Class A and dealt with injuries for the better part of last season. The 21-year-old is a rising star within the Twins system but it doesn't appear that he's ready for the majors quite yet.
Mar 4 2015Buxton (finger) went 2-for-3 with two doubles in Wednesday's exhibition win over the University of Minnesota.Buxton showed he was over a recent illness and more importantly over the broken finger he needed surgery for in the offseason. Buxton won't have a shot to win a major league job as the Twins will want him to begin the season in the minors after an injury-plagued season that saw him appear in just 31 games due to several ailments, including breaking his finger in the Arizona Fall League. He'll begin the season at Double-A, but could be in the majors as early as this summer if he has a fast start and shows he can stay healthy.
Mar 1 2015Buxton was sent home with a case of the flu that has hit some of the Twins clubhouse, Phil Miller of the Star-Tribune reports.This is likely a blip on the radar, as Buxton was never likely to make the big league club but is still likely to see time in the majors later this year. All this costs the wunderkind is some big league batting practice.
Jan 24 2015Buxton (finger) isn't expected to break camp with the team, but Twins general manager Terry Ryan said he could see Buxton "surfacing" in the majors in 2015, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton is projected to begin the season at Double-A. He was cleared to resume baseball activities two weeks ago as he continues to work back from surgery to repair his broken finger. Buxton appears on track to participate in spring training.
Jan 23 2015Buxton (finger) said Friday that he was cleared to resume baseball activities two weeks ago, FOX Sports North's Tyler Mason reports.Injuries marred Buxton's third professional season; first it was his wrist, then a concussion, suffered in his very first game with Double-A New Britain, and finally, a fractured finger suffered in the Arizona Fall League. The 21-year-old is reportedly eager to prove the injuries are behind him, but the lost development time will likely result in Buxton having to wait until September to get his first run with the big club.
Oct 31 2014Buxton underwent surgery on his broken finger Friday, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton is expected to be ready for spring training as the surgery went without a hitch. He had an injury-plagued 2014 season with wrist, shoulder and a concussion issue along with his broken finger. The damage to his finger wasn't bad, and he should undergo a quick recovery.
Oct 28 2014Buxton also suffered a "small fracture" in his dislocated left middle finger Monday, according to Twins farm director Brad Steil, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.The Twins have, unsurprisingly, ruled Buxton out for the remainder of the Arizona Fall League. Buxton hurt himself Monday on an attempt at a sinking line drive, and while the injury is to his non-throwing hand, the team figures to play it safe and limit his activity for several weeks, at least. There's been nothing to suggest he'll require surgery.
Oct 28 2014Buxton has been diagnosed with a dislocated middle finger on his right hand and will see a specialist for further evaluation, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "It's all right," Buxton said Tuesday. "Throbbing a little bit, but stuff happens."The 20-year-old hurt his finger Monday while attempting to catch a sinking line drive, just hours after being named to the Fall Stars Game. Buxton figures to be replaced in that showcase, and his AFL season may very well be over, though the team will wait until he re-evaluated before formally ruling him out. It's becoming somewhat of a troubling trend, as Buxton missed the final eight games of the 2013 Fall League with a strained left shoulder, and his 2014 campaign with Double-A New Britain was cut short by a concussion Aug. 13.
Oct 27 2014Buxton was removed from Monday's Arizona Fall League game in the ninth inning with an injury to the middle finger of his right hand, MLB.com's William Boor reports.Buxton suffered the injury while failing to make a diving catch in the contest, resulting in his immediate removal. The outfielder, widely regarded as one of the top prospects in all of baseball, was sent to a nearby hospital for X-rays on the finger, but the severity of the ailment likely won't be known until Tuesday. Buxton, who was limited to just 31 minor-league games last season due to a wrist injury and concussion, is batting .262 in AFL play.
Oct 14 2014Buxton went 2-for-4 with a run scored in Monday's Arizona Fall League game, pushing his line to .333/.417/.381 through five games.Early on, Buxton has converted his only stolen-base attempt while driving in three runs and scoring five on the strength of a 7-for-21 start. Having him get through the next four-plus weeks healthy and performing well against advanced competition would be a great sign after a mostly lost season in the minors thanks to a wrist injury and a concussion. It's reasonable to think that he'll stay in Arizona for the duration of the league due to the extended absences he had in 2014.
Sep 4 2014Buxton has been cleared of concussion-related symptoms, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.The plan is for Buxton to spend some time in instructional league before transferring over to the Arizona Fall League. Various injuries greatly limited his reps in the 2014 season, so the Twins will look to get him work wherever they can.
Aug 26 2014Buxton (concussion) wasn't assigned to the Arizona Fall League Tuesday, indicating he probably isn't over his post-concussion symptoms, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton could have used the instructional league to get some extra work and coaching in before the end of the season, but his concussion effects seem to still be lingering. Now, the Twins' top prospect will continue to work towards returning from something that has an uncertain timetable.
Aug 18 2014Buxton (concussion) will not return to Double-A New Britain this season, the Star Tribune's Phil Miller reports.He is currently rehabbing with High-A Fort Myers, and with the minor league season drawing to a close in the coming weeks, the Twins decided that it doesn't make much sense to rush Buxton back to Double-A. However, there's a good chance he will begin the 2015 campaign at New Britain, especially if he impresses during the spring. He may not be the consensus top prospect in baseball for the second season in a row (Kris Bryant will likely draw that distinction in 2015 from many experts), but his tools allow for a ceiling that is unmatched in the minor leagues. While he will not play in the minors again this season, the Arizona Fall League remains a possibility.
Aug 15 2014Buxton (concussion) will join High-A Fort Myers on Friday, LaVelle E. Neal of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton received a concussion after colliding with a teammate at his first Double-A game. He appears to be on the road to recovery, and will join his old team in High-A for some more rehab before he goes back to Double-A New Britain, but does not have a timetable for his return yet..
Aug 14 2014Buxton (concussion) was placed on the 7-day DL by Double-A New Britain on Thursday, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton was discharged from the hospital last night, after doctors determined he suffered no broken bones when he collided with teammate Mike Kvasnicka. He was unable to pass concussion tests, however, so he'll be subjected to the minor league protocol before receiving clearance to play again. Because players recover at different rates from concussions, it's tough to estimate when Buxton might play again, but the Twins could just opt to shut him down for the year with just over two weeks remaining in New Britain's regular season. Buxton has suited up for just 31 games in his third campaign as a professional.
Aug 13 2014Twins VP of player personnel Mike Radcliff told the St. Paul Pioneer Press that Buxton, who was carted off the field at Double-A New Britain on Wednesday, "was responsive after the collision."Meanwhile, Buxton's father Felton said bluntly "I really don't know" when asked if his son was all right following the nasty collision with teammate Mike Kvasnicka. The 20-year-old Buxton, who was playing in his first game with New Britain after being promoted from High-A Fort Myers, had to be carted off the field and stabilized before leaving in an ambulance. Expect an update on Buxton's status as more information becomes available.
Aug 13 2014Buxton was carted off the field and left in an ambulance Wednesday after an outfield collision with Double-A New Britain teammate Mike Kvasnicka, Jake Seiner of MiLB.com reports.Playing in his first game with New Britain, Buxton collided with Kvasnicka in what was by all accounts a violent collision. While Kvasnicka was up and walking around shortly thereafter, Buxton stayed down and had to be stabilized before being lifted into the ambulance. It's certainly a troubling situation, one which the Twins figure to elaborate in the coming hours.
Aug 13 2014Buxton has no broken bones and a CT scan came back negative after his collision with teammate Mike Kvasnicka, Yahoo's Jeff Passan reports.Buxton is being treated for a concussion, and he's sore in the neck and shoulder area.
Jul 19 2014Buxton went 4-for-6 with a homer, two walks, three runs, two RBI and a hit-by-pitch in a 17-inning game with High-A Fort Myers on Friday.He really took advantage of his nine plate appearances, and survived a scare when he was hit on the wrist by a pitch in the eighth inning, managing to stay in for the entire game. In 13 games since returning from a long injury absence to start the season, Buxton is slashing .280/.357/.520 with three home runs and two steals. There have been questions in the industry lately about whether Buxton remains the top prospect in baseball, but he's certainly starting to silence any doubters, and could get a taste of Double-A to finish the season.
Jun 28 2014Buxton is close to taking batting practice and doing full pre-game work and could begin playing in games soon, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton will likely play games in the rookie Gulf Coast League before moving up to a higher level. Buxton missed most of spring training and April with a wrist injury, then had a setback after playing just five games in the minors.
Jun 24 2014Buxton (wrist) has been able to hit off a tee and isn't in need of surgery, the St. Paul Pioneer Press' Mike Berardino reports.Buxton is a budding young prospect, but this wrist injury has certainly stunted his growth through the Twins' minor league system. While it was once thought that an eventual callup to the majors was possible in September, that premonition has been deterred. The Twins value Buxton and will likely give him plenty of time to fully recover so that he doesn't injure his wrist further.
Jun 4 2014Buxton's injured wrist has improved, but not to the point where he can start swinging a bat, Brad Steil, Minnesota's director of minor league operations, told the Minneapolis Star Tribune.Buxton missed most of spring training and April with the injury, then had a setback after playing just five games in the minors. The Twins likely want to be extra sure the wrist problem is behind him before he starts playing again, so we may not see him in action until the second half of the season. A callup to the majors in September looks very unlikely as a result.
May 27 2014Buxton is still resting his injured wrist, and the team has yet to announce a timetable for him to return to game action, Fox Sports North's Tyler Mason reports.Twins assistant GM Rob Anthony said the Arizona Fall League or winter ball are possibilities to get Buxton more at-bats to help make up for missed time this season, which doesn't make it seem like Buxton is close to returning to the field for High-A Fort Myers. There's no denying Buxton's potential in dynasty leagues, but for those who expected the game's top prospect to make an impact at the big-league level this season in single-season leagues, it's probably time to cut bait.
May 13 2014Buxton (wrist) had an MRI Tuesday in Minnesota and it showed an aggravation of his previous wrist injury, and it did not appear to be any worse, Fox Sports North's Tyler Mason reports.The Twins hope the timeline isn't as long as the original wrist injury, suffered in late-March, which kept Buxton out for six weeks, but it's not clear yet exactly how much time he'll miss. He will head to Fort Myers and will work out in extended spring training until his condition improves. This is the kind of setback that will almost certainly dash any hopes of Buxton making an impact at the major-league level in 2014, yet he remains an prized asset in dynasty leagues.
May 11 2014Buxton (wrist) was placed on the 7-day DL on Sunday, LaVelle Neal of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.Buxton was diagnosed with a left wrist sprain after undergoing an MRI on Saturday, resulting in his second trip to the disabled list of the season. Wrist injuries have limited Buxton to just five games over the first month-plus of the season, but it's done little to damage his standing as one of the top prospects in all of baseball.
Apr 29 2014Buxton (wrist) has played in extended spring training games the past four days and will head to High-A Fort Myers for several games when he's ready to play nine innings, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.It sounds like Buxton could play for Fort Myers in a few days and he could be promoted to Double-A New Britain in early May. Buxton suffered a pisotriquetral joint sprain in his left wrist in the middle of March and was sidelined over a month. His delayed start to the season decreases the odds he'll be promoted to the major leagues this year.
Apr 25 2014Buxton (wrist) has had his first extended spring training game pushed back to Saturday, the Star Tribune's LaVelle E. Neal III reports.He was originally scheduled to take the field for an extended spring training game Monday, but that has been moved up a couple days. Buxton is just going to get some work in during a spring game before returning to game action, likely at Double-A New Britain in early-May. He remains a long shot to be of much fantasy use in 2014, as a late season call-up would probably be a best-case scenario. But there's no doubting Buxton's value in dynasty leagues, as he profiles as a difference maker across the board.
Apr 23 2014Buxton (wrist) is scheduled to play in his first extended spring training game Monday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.The Twins will have Buxton take batting practice on the field for a few more days before returning him to game action, but it sounds like the star prospect is on track to join Double-A New Britain early next month. Assuming he stays healthy upon his return, Buxton will have a good chance to earn a late-season callup, but a debut before August is likely out the window.
Apr 4 2014Buxton (wrist) has yet to resume swinging a bat, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton suffered the wrist injury near the middle of March and hit the minor league DL after being diagnosed with a sprained joint. While Twins farm director Brad Steil said there is "nothing new" to report on Buxton's wrist, the fact that he's still not swinging a bat is noteworthy since he was expected to miss only a week, initially. Now it sounds like he may miss most, if not all, of April.
Mar 26 2014Buxton is expected to begin the season on the minor league disabled list due to a sprained joint in his wrist, LaVelle Neal of the Star Tribune reports.Buxton officially is hampered by a pisotriquetral joint sprain in his left wrist, and it seems that he will be on the disabled list for about the first week of the minor league season. Buxton will likely open the campaign with Double-A New Britain.
Mar 20 2014Buxton (wrist) is sitting Thursday for a fourth straight day, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Coming into camp, Buxton was nursing a shoulder injury he suffered in the Arizona Fall League, and he's now reportedly dealing with a sprained left wrist. It's not what you want to hear with a prospect of Buxton's caliber -- he's widely regarded as the top prospect in all of baseball -- but there's been nothing to suggest to this point that he'll miss regular season time. It's something for dynasty owners to keep an eye on, however.
Mar 9 2014Buxton was reassigned to minor league camp Sunday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.The Blue Jays' Drew Hutchison got a look at the future Saturday, as Buxton smacked a no-doubter off the right-hander for his first home run of the spring. It seems like a good way for Buxton to end his first spring with the big club, and the 20-year-old will now transition to minor league camp with an eye toward opening the year at Double-A New Britain. The Twins won't rush his development, but Buxton, the second overall pick in the 2012 amateur draft, could be up in September.
Jan 23 2014Buxton has fully recovered from the shoulder injury that he suffered in November, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.Buxton, arguably the top prospect in all of baseball, suffered a left shoulder strain during Arizona Fall League play. The injury doesn't appear to be an issue for 2014, as Buxton is back at full health well before the start of spring training. He has an invite to major league camp but will likely begin his season in the minors. Buxton spent 2013 with Low-A Cedar Rapids and High-A Fort Myers, combining for a .334/.424/.520 slash line, with 12 home runs and 55 stolen bases in just 125 games. He should be ready to move up a level, meaning that Double-A New Britain is Buxton's most likely Opening Day destination.
Jan 9 2014Buxton (shoulder) has been invited to attend major league camp during spring training.Widely considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball, Buxton is coming off a 2013 season in which he hit .334/.424/.520 with 12 homers and 55 steals in 125 games between Low-A Cedar Rapids and High-A Fort Myers. As promising a young player as he is, the Twins figure to let the 20-year-old outfielder continue his development in the minors to open the year, though his time with the major league club this spring should prove valuable. He strained his left shoulder toward the end of the Arizona Fall League, but resumed working out last month and seems to be progressing nicely.
Dec 14 2013Buxton has resumed working out, after a strained left shoulder ended his Arizona Fall League season, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.The Twins say they are not worried about the injury. Buxton himself said he has improved his already elite speed this offseason by running the 40-yard dash in 4.37 seconds from 4.43 seconds. He was named the Minor League Player of the Year by Baseball America, after hitting .334/.424/.520 with 12 home runs and 55 stolen bases between Low-A Cedar Rapids and High-A Fort Myers last season. He'll likely begin the season at Double-A New Britain, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him entrenched as Minnesota's starting center fielder as early as June.
Nov 6 2013Buxton may have his Arizona Fall League campaign cut short due to a shoulder injury, Baseball America reports. He was hitting just .212/.288/.404 with three home runs in 21 games.Buxton was named the minor league player of the year by Baseball America after hitting .334/.424/.520 with 12 home runs and 55 stolen bases between High-A and Double-A last season. This injury doesn't sound serious, but it's something to monitor this winter.
Sep 11 2013Buxton was named the minor league player of the year by Baseball America on Wednesday.The 19-year-old phenom raked between Low-A and High-A this season, posting a .334/.424/.520 slash line with 12 homers and 55 stolen bases in 125 games. He is expected to move up to Double-A New Britain next year and remains one of the top prospects in the game right now.
Jun 23 2013Buxton was promoted to High-A Fort Myers of the Gulf Coast League on Sunday, according to Tyler Mason of FOX Sports North.Buxton will move up the ladder to High-A ball after dominating in the Midwest League. In 68 games at Low-A Cedar Rapids, he hit .341/.431/.559 with eight home runs, 55 RBI, 32 stolen bases, and 10 triples. One of the top prospects for the Twins, he will now try his hand with Fort Myers.
Apr 22 2013Buxton hasn't slowed down at all as his slash line is .415/.523/.642 in his first 15 games with Low-A Cedar Rapids.The number two overall pick from last summer is still raw and you can see that on the bases where he's been caught four times in 10 tries. Knowing that Buxton has so little experience and such a long way to go before he even scratches the surface of his potential makes what he's doing right now even more impressive.