Twins’ Byron Buxton Lands Way High on the List of Top MLB Center Fielders
When Byron Buxton plays for the Minnesota Twins, he is among the most talented players in baseball. The problem thus far in his career has been availability. Given just how impactful he has been on the field, a recent ranking couldn’t discredit him for the time missed.
MLB Network loves Minnesota Twins Byron Buxton
Last season the Minnesota Twins got 102 games from Byron Buxton. It was just the second time he has reached the century mark during his career, and the first time since 2017. MLB Network showered praise on him after a 137 OPS+.
Byron Buxton is our #3 center fielder heading into 2025, after slugging .524 for the @Twins this year!#Top10RightNow pic.twitter.com/HzfuyShE7n
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 8, 2025
“Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins. This is his fifth-straight year in the top ten as Buxton remains one of the most tantalizing talents in Major League Baseball. When healthy, he is a premier defender and has prodigious power. But he has been unable to consistently stay on the field. Last year he returned to center field after a year solely at DH. Battled knee and hip injuries.”
The Shredder on Byron Buxton (MLB Network)
Coming in at third overall, Buxton ranks behind only the Seattle Mariners Julio Rodriguez and San Diego Padres Jackson Merrill. Last season the Twins starter ranked seventh, and he elevated his positioning after a strong 2024 campaign.
There is no denying that Buxton has been incredible when healthy. Even despite a 97 OPS+ in 2023 while operating as just a designated hitter, the talented outfielder is on a ridiculous run. Since 2019, Buxton has slashed .253/.316/.528 with 105 homers in 466 games.
435 feet for Byron Buxton's 13th home run of the year. 🚀 pic.twitter.com/oiXNUbW1DT
— MLB (@MLB) July 31, 2024
This season Rocco Baldelli will be hoping that Buxton can remain in centerfield for the long haul. The Twins corner outfielders have serious questions surrounding them, and Max Kepler is now longer part of the organization. A stabilizing presence in center field is a must.
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While ownership is unwilling to spend any money, Derek Falvey is forced to rely upon current talent. The Twins have plenty of that, but they need those already in the clubhouse to be available and capable of stepping up.
BYRON BUXTON HOME RUN! 450 FT 💥 #MNTwins pic.twitter.com/eMfAXLTHFf
— Talkin' Twins (@TalkinTwins) September 26, 2024
Buxton, along with Carlos Correa, are among the best things going for the Minnesota Twins. Each have experienced maladies in recent seasons that have caused issues for the entire roster. A season of health for both would cause serious problems for the rest of the American League Central Division.
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It remains to be seen what version of health the Twins get from Buxton in 2025 He entered the offseason in the best spot he has been in years though. If that translates to availability and production, watch out.
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