The Minnesota Twins have officially placed All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton on the 10-day injured list due to rib inflammation that has kept him from playing since Saturday. This decision marks a significant pivot for the team, as they initially opted not to put Buxton on the injured list after an MRI indicated “a good outcome.” Manager Rocco Baldelli had expressed hope for Buxton’s quick return at that point.
Buxton’s injury is a setback for Minnesota, which is still in contention for the postseason but faces an uphill battle. As of Tuesday, the Twins held a record of 51-55, trailing the Boston Red Sox by five games for the final American League wild card spot, with several teams ahead of them in the standings. Buxton is a vital player for the Twins, showcasing impressive stats this season, including a .282 batting average, 23 home runs, 59 RBI, and 17 stolen bases. His performance earned him a selection for the All-Star Game and participation in the Home Run Derby.
Buxton had exited from Saturday’s game against the Washington Nationals due to “left side soreness,” which was initially addressed with a day-to-day outlook. However, the shift to placing him on the injured list has raised questions about the team’s direction as the trade deadline approaches, leaving them to reconsider whether to act as buyers or sellers in the market.
Despite the challenges, there is still hope for the team if they can rally in Buxton’s absence. With strong leadership and the performance from other key players like pitcher Joe Ryan, the Twins could potentially find a path to regain momentum in their quest for a postseason berth. The opportunity remains for younger players to step up, showcasing their talents during this critical period.