Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton marked his bobblehead day with a historic performance on Saturday, hitting for the cycle in the team’s penultimate game of the first half against the Pittsburgh Pirates. This achievement is especially notable as it marks the franchise’s first cycle since 2019, highlighting Buxton’s outstanding offensive display.
Details of Buxton’s Exceptional Day at the Plate
Buxton began his cycle with an infield single in the bottom of the first inning. He followed that with a triple in the second inning and then added a double in the third. In the fifth inning, he secured another single before completing the cycle with a home run in the seventh. This sequence of hits showcased Buxton’s versatility and power throughout the game.
Context of Buxton’s Cycle Within Major League Baseball and Twins History
This was only the second cycle recorded in Major League Baseball this season, following Chicago Cubs catcher Carson Kelly‘s cycle on March 31 against the Athletics. It also marks the 12th cycle in the history of the Minnesota Twins franchise. Past players who have hit for the cycle include Jorge Polanco, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel, Carlos Gomez, and the legendary Kirby Puckett, among others.
Byron Buxton’s 2024 Season Performance and Team Implications
Entering the game, Buxton, a two-time All-Star, was batting .273/.340/.543 with 20 home runs and 17 stolen bases over 76 games, earning an estimated 3.5 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference. With the Twins holding a comfortable eight-run lead late in the game, a win would bring their record to 47-48 for the season. This result keeps them 12 games behind the Detroit Tigers, but the final wild card spot remains attainable, potentially shrinking to a three-game gap if the Tampa Bay Rays fall to the Boston Red Sox.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Byron Buxton?
A. Buxton left the game with a bruised left hand, but X-rays did not show any broken bones. On Thursday morning in Minneapolis, Byron Buxton got good news. This was after he exited the 4-2 win against the Cubs on Wednesday due to his injury.
Q. What is Byron Buxton’s top speed?
A. Buxton also pitched a fastball reaching a speed of 99 miles per hour, which is about 159 kilometers per hour.