Buxton and Ryan Earn All‑Star Honors While Twins Stay Put

Buxton’s All‑Star Call Marks a Career Milestone

Byron Buxton found himself selected as a starter for the American League squad for the first time, joining teammate Byron Buxton on the Minnesota Twins roster. The five‑tool outfielder is hitting .904 OPS, his best mark since 2021, and has homered 25 times—tied for fifth in the majors. In New York, he praised the chance to represent Minnesota again, saying it “means a lot to be able to represent the Twins but also to be able to start out the season good.” Buxton’s recent removal from a game due to right‑hip discomfort was a precautionary move, and he remains off the injured list, a point of pride for the 32‑year‑old.

Ryan’s Player‑Elected Ace Lands His Second Straight All‑Star Spot

Joe Ryan, the Twins’ hard‑throwing right‑hander, earned a player‑selected nod to the All‑Star Game, marking his second consecutive appearance. He has started 19 games, the most in the league, and ranks seventh in strikeout‑to‑walk ratio. “To be able to run it back with Joe is a little bit more special to me,” Ryan said after the roster was announced. Despite being on many trade candidate lists, both Ryan and Buxton remain under contract with Minnesota, reflecting the club’s decision to keep its emerging stars.

Twins’ Keep‑It Strategy: Retain Stars While Managing Payroll

General manager Jeremy Zoll publicly declared that Byron Buxton has never been on the trade block and will not be now, reinforcing the front office’s buildup around its top talent. Buxton’s contract, worth just over $15 million per season, runs through 2028 and includes a no‑trade clause he has repeatedly emphasized. The Twins, a team in transition with a bottom‑third payroll after a major sell‑off last year, are showing competitiveness despite roster imperfections. This season, they have already taken a road series from the Yankees for the first time in 12 years, underscoring the impact of keeping key contributors.

Season Outlook: Buxton and Ryan Fuel Twins’ Playoff Hopes

With a threadbare bullpen and injuries to several starters, the Twins are still in contention in the AL Central and the wild‑card race. Buxton’s health—such as his decision not to push through the hip discomfort—shows a mature approach to preserving the lineup. Ryan’s consistent starts add stability to a rotation that has been stretched thin. As both players continue to perform at high levels, they are becoming cornerstones for a club that is proving it can compete despite financial constraints. Their All‑Star selections not only highlight personal achievement but also signal that the Twins have retained the pieces needed to push deep into the postseason.