Twins Announce Byron Buxton Update During Royals Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jul 28, 2026 8:50 PM ET

The Minnesota Twins would be lost without center fielder Byron Buxton. Now in his 12th season with the franchise, he has continued to operate as one of the most impactful players in the league.

Across 81 games, the 32-year-old has posted a .264 batting average, .322 on-base percentage, .869 OPS, 25 home runs and 45 RBIs. He is the biggest reason the Twins have outperformed expectations this year and remain in the race for a wild card spot in the American League.

Entering Tuesday's game against the Kansas City Royals, Minnesota sits just one game below .500. Buxton earned his second straight All-Star selection for his efforts during the first half.

Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

However, Buxton did not appear in the All-Star Game this season after missing time due to a right hip strain. He was activated last Monday from the 10-day injured list, yet it appears he has not fully healed from the issue.

Buxton was removed from Tuesday's game against Kansas City in the top of the fifth inning, with backup outfielder Alan Roden taking his place in the lineup.

Moments after his exit, Minnesota confirmed the reason was another re-aggravation of his right hip injury. "Twins say Byron Buxton was removed from the game with right hip soreness," reported Aaron Gleeman.

Twins say Byron Buxton was removed from the game with right hip soreness.

Same hip that has been bothering him, off and on, for most of the season. https://t.co/aHr1JmBHan
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) July 29, 2026

It is unclear how severe it is, but given this is the third separate time the issue has surfaced this season and he just came off the injured list, it is definitely troubling.

Buxton's availability can really dictate how far Minnesota goes in the second half, making this development one of the biggest storylines the organization faces heading into August.

Manager Derek Shelton will likely provide an update on Buxton's condition after the game.

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

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