Byron Buxton News Emerges After Leaving World Baseball Classic Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Mar 6, 2026 10:59 PM ET

The Minnesota Twins are in an interesting position heading into the upcoming season. The roster was largely depleted at last year’s trade deadline, and the front office did little in free agency this winter to replenish the pieces that were moved. Even so, ownership still believes the team can contend despite not making any notable additions.

If the Twins do compete this year, it will be because of Byron Buxton, who remains one of the best center fielders in baseball. In 2025, Buxton finally delivered a healthy season after injuries had repeatedly derailed his career.

The 32‑year‑old posted a .264 batting average, .327 on‑base percentage, .878 OPS, 35 home runs, 83 RBIs and 24 stolen bases across 126 games. He earned his second All‑Star selection and his first Silver Slugger Award.

Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton (25)© Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

Buxton is looking to replicate that success in Minnesota, even though he could become a trade candidate at this year’s deadline if the season goes south. Before that, he has stepped away from camp to participate in the World Baseball Classic.

It marks Buxton’s first time playing in the international tournament, something he had never been able to do because he was frequently on the injured list. Unfortunately, in the top of the fifth inning on Friday in the first game of pool play against Brazil, disaster struck for both Team USA and Twins fans.

Buxton was hit on the right hand by a four‑seam fastball and immediately showed visible discomfort. He exited the game with the training staff, raising concern about a potential setback. Moments later, however, the FOX broadcast provided an encouraging update: Buxton’s removal was precautionary.

Byron Buxton was pulled for precautionary reasons. He is healthy and going to be OK, per the Fox broadcast pic.twitter.com/vKHn2pAjHc
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 7, 2026

This is welcome news for both the Twins and Team USA. Minnesota is already down one player at the World Baseball Classic, as All‑Star starting pitcher Joe Ryan was originally scheduled to pitch in pool play but was left off the roster due to lower‑back inflammation. Given Buxton’s injury history, avoiding a serious issue is especially important.

If Buxton remains healthy and carries his 2025 form into the season, he gives the Twins a legitimate chance to outperform expectations despite the roster turnover.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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