Byron Buxton, a talented outfielder for the Minnesota Twins, has often been synonymous with injury concerns throughout his career. However, this season has seen a shift as Buxton has managed to stay healthy, and his performance has been nothing short of remarkable. With the July 31 trade deadline approaching, speculation is growing about whether the Philadelphia Phillies might pursue a trade for the 31-year-old outfielder.
In 65 games this season, Buxton boasts a batting average of .278, with 18 home runs, 49 RBIs, and an impressive .907 OPS. His offensive output could significantly bolster the Phillies’ lineup, which has been seeking a solid right-handed bat. Furthermore, Buxton’s credentials as a former Platinum Glove Award winner demonstrate his defensive prowess; he has recorded four outs above average in center field this year.
Despite having some challenges defensively this season, Buxton’s overall career stats speak volumes, with a total of 69 defensive runs saved. He could offer the Phillies a competent defender in center field, a position that has been unstable for them since Shane Victorino’s departure in 2012. In the future, there is also the possibility of Buxton transitioning to left field when prospect Justin Crawford makes his debut.
According to FanGraphs, Buxton’s value is reflected in his WAR (Wins Above Replacement), which ranks him 13th among all position players. Should he remain healthy, his addition could be pivotal for the Phillies’ aspirations of clinching the World Series by 2025.
However, acquiring Buxton comes with significant risks. He has only surpassed 100 games played twice in his career—once in 2017 and again this season. His ongoing health issues raise concerns, particularly regarding availability during critical moments in the playoffs. Additionally, Buxton’s contract complicates a potential trade; he has a full no-trade clause and is owed over $45 million over the next three years, which could deter some teams despite his healthy value on the field.
The Twins are unlikely to part with Buxton easily, even if a team were willing to absorb his contract. Any trade would likely involve giving up a promising prospect or two, which might not be appealing for the Phillies, especially seeing how under President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski they have favored players with a history of consistent performance.
Nonetheless, the rarity of talented center fielders presents a challenge for the Phillies, as shown by their exploration of other options like Luis Robert Jr. While Buxton’s durability may raise a red flag, his potential to make a significant impact makes him a player worth considering this summer. Taking calculated risks may be necessary for the Phillies to maximize their competitiveness in the league.
The potential acquisition of Buxton indeed offers a blend of hope and caution, making it a compelling topic as the trade deadline approaches.