Despite holding one of the poorest records in baseball, the Atlanta Braves defied expectations at the trade deadline by engaging more in acquisitions than sales. The Braves bolstered their pitching depth with the addition of starting arms and secured reliever Tyler Kinley, who will compete for a spot on the 2026 roster during the remaining months of the season. Central to their aggressive approach was their keen interest in acquiring Minnesota Twins All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton.
Braves Among Teams Eager to Acquire Buxton, Sources Reveal
According to Dan Hayes of The Athletic, the Braves were one of several clubs scouting Buxton ahead of the deadline, with the Atlanta team and the New York Mets showing the strongest pursuits. Hayes reported that the Braves, in particular, were among two teams that pressed intensely to secure a deal. This pursuit occurred despite Buxton’s clear stance on his unwillingness to waive his no-trade clause, which he had made known since the All-Star break and reiterated repeatedly.
The Braves were one of two teams who pushed extremely hard. Buxton declined. He said what he said at the All-Star break, on Saturday and yesterday.
— DanHayesMLB
Byron Buxton’s Steadfast Commitment to Minnesota
Buxton, recognized as one of baseball’s elite talents, emphatically refused to entertain a move away from Minnesota. Speaking during the All-Star break, he expressed strong loyalty to the Twins and made clear that Minnesota was his sole destination, regardless of trade rumors or roster upheavals surrounding his team. While the Twins traded numerous key players at the deadline, Buxton’s intentions remained unchanged.
It’s always good to be wanted,
Buxton said.
Don’t get me wrong. But the only place I want is Minnesota. All of my choices are easy. I ain’t got but one place on my mind. That’s how it’ll be.
Potential Impact of a Buxton Acquisition on the Braves’ Outfield
Buxton’s career has been marked by top-tier talent offset by persistent injury challenges, never playing more than 140 games in a single season and surpassing 100 games only twice. Despite health concerns, his contract through 2028 and a salary commitment just over $45 million make him a valuable target. For the Braves, whose outfield remains shrouded in uncertainty, Buxton would offer a dynamic boost, adding speed, defense, and offensive upside. However, given Buxton’s current unwillingness to waive his no-trade rights, any future trade discussions will require patient negotiation and likely further developments.