The Minnesota Twins were hit with a wave of concern on Sunday after center fielder Byron Buxton exited the game following a hit-by-pitch. In the top of the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals, Buxton was struck in the left knee by a 91.8 mph sinker from starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen.
He initially remained in the game but was replaced defensively by James Outman in center field in the bottom of the sixth. His departure quickly raised concerns given his injury history. Since debuting in 2015, Buxton has developed a reputation as one of baseball’s most electric but injury-prone players.
Buxton has dealt with a wide range of setbacks, from lower body injuries to rib and muscle strains, and his availability has often dictated the Twins’ performance. That background made his removal on Sunday particularly newsworthy, as fans held their breath in hopes it was only a precautionary move.
Later in the game, the Twins announced the news via sideline reporter Audra Martin that Buxton was dealing with a left knee contusion. This was the reason for his removal.
The clarification offered some relief, but it remains to be seen how his body will hold up heading into the stretch run of September. This season, Buxton owns fantastic numbers with a .271 batting average and .894 OPS. He has also hit 30 home runs to go with 74 RBIs over 420 at-bats.
Byron Buxton’s Extensive Injury History
Buxton’s history is riddled with soft-tissue injuries, including a rib-cage inflammation bout that eventually landed him on the injured list in late July. His past injury issues add weight to any decision involving his health.
Buxton’s ability to stay in the game initially was a good sign. But the team’s choice to remove him might speak to deeper concerns, at least among fans.
Having played 109 games this season, the second most in his MLB career, Buxton has now made it consecutive 100-game seasons for the first time as a pro. His importance to the Twins remains significant. When healthy, Buxton is a dynamic force capable of impacting games on both sides of the ball.
But if this knee issue costs him any time, Minnesota will have to weigh internal options — as well as the importance of preserving Buxton’s health amid what does not look to be a real chance at the postseason.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source athlonsports.com ’
