An awkward slide in an attempt to steal second base was the final straw for a hip injury that has plagued Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton for most of the season. On Tuesday, ahead of the team's game against the Cleveland Guardians, Minnesota placed Buxton on the 10-day IL.
Buxton, who has long struggled with injuries, was having a career renaissance this year and is on pace for career highs in total hits, home runs, and RBI. In 75 games this season, Buxton is slashing .271/.328/.575, with 25 home runs, 45 RBI, and 57 runs scored. He has been a major reason why the Twins, a team that has not always been known for its offense, have the seventh-highest runs scored total in MLB.
Deservedly, Buxton was voted to be a starter for the American League in this year's MLB All-Star Game. It is his third All-Star Game nomination and first as a starting outfielder. Unfortunately, the re-aggravation of the hip injury and landing on the IL will make Buxton ineligible to play.
Hip injuries have plagued Buxton throughout his career, resulting in multiple IL stints over the years. During his 12-year MLB career, Buxton has only played in over 102 games twice: in 2017 and 2025. When he is healthy, there is no doubting his talent. In 2017, Buxton was 18th in the AL MVP race and won a Gold Glove award for his defense. In 2025, he was voted to be an All-Star and took home the Silver Slugger award for his offensive prowess.
Buxton's hip issues have carried over into 2026, where he missed five games in May and four games in June due to the ailment. Even when he returned to the lineup, Buxton has balanced his playing time in center field and at designated hitter, likely to give his hip a break. If Buxton can return after the MLB All-Star break on July 17, he would only miss six games while sitting out the full 10 days.
In a corresponding move, the Twins recalled outfielder Alan Roden from Triple-A St. Paul to take Buxton's place on the roster.
