
The Minnesota Twins enter the offseason in reset mode after dismantling their roster at the trade deadline. As the organization enters a transitional phase, one key piece remains, the face of the franchise Byron Buxton.
The 31-year-old veteran outfielder finally put together a healthy season in 2025, appearing in 126 games. Buxton did not disappoint, posting a .264 batting average, .327 on-base percentage, .878 OPS, 35 home runs and 83 RBIs. He collected the second All-Star selection of his career for his efforts in the first half. Buxton was also named a recipient of the Silver Slugger Award in the American League for the first time in his 11-year career.
Despite Buxton’s impressive season, the Twins face an uncertain winter. Buxton’s resurgence gives Minnesota’s front office a legitimate star to build around, but the team’s overall direction remains unclear.
The Twins may continue dismantling the roster by moving on from starting pitchers Joe Ryan or Pablo Lopez. If that is the case, a new report suggests Buxton’s stance on a potential trade could be shifting.
“But a major-league source indicated Tuesday that Buxton, who turns 32 next month, wants to play for a winner and may reconsider his stance for certain clubs if the Twins continue breaking up their roster, potentially by trading starting pitchers Joe Ryan or Pablo Lopez. The two-time All-Star center fielder has three years and $45 million remaining on his current deal, one which grants him full no-trade protection through next season, and the ability to block trades to five clubs in 2027 and 2028,” reported Dan Hayes of The Athletic.
Derek Falvey said he wants to build around Joe Ryan and Pablo López instead of trading either. Making a deal could result in Byron Buxton being willing to waive his no-trade clause.
— DanHayesMLB (@DanHayesMLB) November 12, 2025
Also, the #MNTwins hired Grady Sizemore to coach base running.https://t.co/EHWMZ7kgZ1
Buxton has spent his entire career in Minnesota since being drafted second overall in the 2021 MLB Draft out of Appling County High School. He previously expressed a willingness to remain with the team, even through a rebuild. But with the roster being stripped down and the competitive outlook dimming, his stance appears to be shifting.
Buxton’s contract gives him control, but his desire to compete adds pressure to a front office already facing tough decisions. If the teardown continues, the face of the franchise may no longer be willing to stay.
That uncertainty looms over the offseason, shaping how Minnesota approaches everything from trade talks to long-term planning. Whether the Twins commit to building around Buxton or pivot toward a full rebuild, his future will be central to whatever comes next.
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