MLB insider on Braves’ chances of landing Byron Buxton

The buzz this offseason is that Byron Buxton would be willing to waive his no-trade clause for several teams — including the Atlanta Braves — if the Twins don’t make an effort to add talent and compete.

It’s been well-documented that the Braves made a push for Buxton at the trade deadline, but he refused to waive his clause. Nothing that’s happened since should have deterred Atlanta’s interest. They’d love to have Buxton in their lineup on Opening Day. However, many MLB insiders aren’t convinced the Twins plan to continue selling this offseason the way they did at the deadline.

“Based on conversations I have had this offseason, the Twins appear more likely to hold Buxton, Ryan and López and try to add on the margins than to trade any or all of those three,” Mark Feinsand wrote for MLB.com. “If the first half of the season doesn’t go well, Minnesota could look to move any or all of them next summer, but if I had to guess right now, they’ll all be in Twins uniforms when Spring Training begins.”

It’s hard to trade franchise cornerstones, but from where I sit, holding onto Byron Buxton feels nonsensical. The Twins underwent a complete fire sale at last year’s trade deadline and tanked the rest of the way. They have very little talent on the roster, not much money to spend, and almost no realistic path to contending — even in the perpetually wide-open AL Central.

On top of that, Buxton carries more injury concerns than just about any player in the league. He’s been in the majors for 11 years and has played 100+ games only three times — though two of those seasons have come in the last two years. That’s exactly why trading him now makes sense. There’s a real chance his value will never be higher than it is this offseason.

We’ll see what the Twins decide to do, but whether it’s this winter, next year’s trade deadline, or next offseason, the situation in Minnesota is one Braves fans should monitor closely. Because Buxton isn’t the only intriguing name. Pablo López and Joe Ryan are two starting pitchers Atlanta should have significant interest in as well.