Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton, a participant in the upcoming All-Star Game, exited Wednesday’s contest against the Chicago Cubs after a pitch struck his hand, casting uncertainty over his participation in next week’s Home Run Derby and All-Star Game.
Buxton seemed to have avoided significant damage. Preliminary X-rays on his hand produced negative results, and he received a diagnosis of a contusion on his left hand, according to the Twins’ announcement. He is currently listed as day-to-day. It remains to be seen if further diagnostic evaluations will be conducted.
The incident occurred just five days prior to Buxton’s scheduled participation in the Home Run Derby, set for Monday in Atlanta (8 p.m. ET, ESPN). Buxton also earned a selection as a reserve for his second All-Star Game appearance, scheduled for Tuesday (8 p.m. ET, Fox). The injury raises questions about his availability for both events.
The unfortunate event took place in the bottom of the first inning, during the Twins’ initial plate appearance of the game. A 98 mph fastball delivered by Cubs pitcher Cade Horton veered high and inward, striking Buxton on the upper portion of his left hand, which was protected by padding.
Initially, Buxton remained in the game after an assessment of his hand on the field. After being awarded first base due to the hit-by-pitch, he successfully stole second base and subsequently scored on a single by Ryan Jeffers.
However, he did not return to the game for his subsequent scheduled at-bat in the second inning. Brooks Lee stepped in as a pinch hitter for Buxton, taking his spot in the batting order.
The Twins ultimately secured a 4-2 victory, improving their record to 45-47. They now stand 13 games behind the Detroit Tigers, who hold the top spot in the AL Central, and three games behind the Seattle Mariners in the pursuit of the final AL wild-card berth.
Buxton is currently enjoying an exceptional season amidst a career that has been marked by recurring injuries. At 31 years of age, he has participated in 74 of Minnesota’s 92 games, positioning him to potentially play the second-most games in a single season throughout his 11-year MLB career.
As of Wednesday, his batting statistics are .270/.335/.544, accompanied by 20 home runs and 53 RBI. With the stolen base on Wednesday, he maintains a perfect record of 17-for-17 in stolen-base attempts. His current home run total before the All-Star break (20) already ranks as the third-highest of his career, just eight shy of surpassing his career high.
Buxton and the Twins are undoubtedly hoping for his swift return to the lineup, ideally in time for the All-Star festivities scheduled for next week.
