Byron Buxton is back for the Minnesota Twins after the club reinstated the All-Star outfielder from the 10-day injured list ahead of Monday's game against the Cleveland Guardians. To make room on the active roster, the Twins optioned infielder Tristan Gray to Triple-A St. Paul.
Buxton returns after missing time with a right hip strain that also forced him to skip the All-Star Game despite earning a starting spot. The 32-year-old had resumed baseball activities before the break and was cleared to rejoin Minnesota's lineup after progressing through his recovery.
Through 75 games this season, Buxton has been one of the Twins' top performers, batting .271 with 25 home runs, 45 RBIs, a .575 slugging percentage and seven stolen bases. His return gives Minnesota a major boost as it continues its push in the American League Central race.
The corresponding move sends Gray back to Triple-A after a brief stint with the major league club. The infielder provides organizational depth but was the logical roster casualty with Buxton ready to return.
Minnesota entered Monday with a 49-51 record, sitting third in the American League Central and four games behind the division-leading Chicago White Sox. The Twins remain within striking distance in both the division and Wild Card race, making Buxton's return especially significant for the second half.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Buxton's presence strengthens both ends of the field, giving Minnesota one of its best defensive outfielders and a middle-of-the-order power bat. If he can stay healthy, the Twins will hope their franchise star can help fuel a postseason push over the final months of the regular season.
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