Byron Buxton’s IL Stint Halts Twins’ Playoff Push

Why Twins Placed Buxton on Injured List

The Twins sit at 44‑47, just 1.5 games out of the AL Wild Card and 4.0 behind the division leader. Their momentum stalled when Byron Buxton left a recent game with a hip problem.

A hip injury forced Buxton onto the injured list, sidelining him for an estimated ten days and through the All‑Star break. He will miss both the All‑Star Game and the Home Run Derby. Minnesota responded by promoting Alan Roden from Triple‑A St. Paul to fill the open roster spot.

According to Aaron Gleeman on X, the news broke that Buxton’s hip issue will keep him out of postseason contention for a stretch.

Impact on Twins’ Postseason Run

Before the injury, Buxton was hitting .271 with 25 home runs, 45 RBIs, 57 runs scored, 83 hits, 16 doubles, a triple and a .903 OPS. Those numbers made him a cornerstone of Minnesota’s offensive attack.

The absence will likely erode the Twins’ chances to stay near the Wild Card, especially with their tight race. The roster hole also pressures the club to generate runs without its top‑fielding talent.

Historically, losing a premier outfielder mid‑season has derailed playoff hopes, and the Twins’ limited depth amplifies that risk. If the club can sustain production with Roden and others while awaiting Buxton’s return, they may preserve a playoff foothold after the break.

What It Means for the Trade Deadline

The timing of Buxton’s injury puts added pressure on the Twins’ front office as the July trade deadline approaches. A struggling Twins could consider moving assets like Joe Ryan, but Buxton’s sidelined status may diminish his trade value.

The injury also removes a proven commodity from any potential swap, limiting options for clubs looking to bolster their outfield. Minnesota will have to weigh short‑term needs against long‑term roster construction in the coming weeks.