Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton is preparing to come off the injured list and could return when the Twins open a series at Target Field versus the Kansas City Royals on Friday night. Buxton has missed action since July 26 due to inflammation in his left ribcage but has been progressing steadily with batting practice this week, signaling optimism for a swift comeback.
According to beat writer Dan Hayes, Buxton remains positive about his recovery.
If he keeps trending this way, he thought he’d be ready in a couple of days,
Hayes wrote. The Twins are expected to manage his return carefully, given his injury history, but if he is cleared, Buxton’s first game back may provide an emotional moment for the team and fans alike.
Buxton’s Impact Despite Time on Injured List
Although sidelined recently, Buxton is on track to have the best season of his professional career. He has compiled a .282 batting average, 23 home runs, 17 stolen bases, and a .905 OPS, while delivering strong defensive performances in center field. By the start of this series, Buxton has participated in 85 of the Twins’ 114 games, showcasing his valuable contributions to Minnesota’s lineup.
Buxton has expressed his commitment to the Twins organization, stating his intention to play the remainder of his career in Minnesota. This dedication adds significance to his potential homecoming, which could be met with applause from the home crowd during his first at-bat back, possibly even on Friday or later in the series.
Trevor Larnach Withdrawn from Detroit Game with Discomfort
Outfielder Trevor Larnach was scratched from the Twins’ series finale against the Detroit Tigers due to soreness on his left side. Originally slated to bat seventh and take the left field position, Larnach’s absence led to Kody Clemens moving from first base to left field, with Edouard Julien added to start at first base in his place. The game was scheduled for 12:10 p.m. Central Time.
Larnach has demonstrated some power this year, homering in each of the first two games of the Detroit series and accumulating 15 home runs in total for the season. However, his overall contribution ranks closer to replacement level for a corner outfielder, with a 0.2 WAR and an OPS+ of 99.
Outlook for the Twins Moving Forward
The Twins face a critical stretch as they aim to solidify their playoff positioning, making Buxton’s timely return vital. His offensive and defensive prowess could bolster the team’s performance in upcoming games, while Larnach’s health remains a watchpoint. The cautious approach to player injuries reflects the organization’s long-term strategy of maintaining key contributors in peak condition.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Buxton attempts to rejoin the active roster, with expectations high that his presence will energize Minnesota’s lineup and possibly inspire a memorable homecoming at Target Field this weekend.