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Byron Buxton Rejected Multiple Trade Inquiries Before Deadline
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- Byron Buxton Rejected Multiple Trade Inquiries Before Deadline
Brett Davis-Imagn Images Brett Davis-Imagn Images
The Minnesota Twins have been for sale since October. Of course the Pohlad family has struck out when trying to land a buyer. They sold nearly 40% of the roster for pennies on the dollar last week though, and they probably would have been happy to go further.
While players like Carlos Correa and Griffin Jax had seen enough and wanted out, Byron Buxton never wavered . He has shown that he is the hero this franchise needs, and one the Pohlad's don't deserve.
Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
While multiple teams inquired about his services, just as they would have lined up for his free agency, he knew right where he wanted to be .
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Minnesota Twins weren't ever able to trade Byron Buxton
Byron Buxton made it clear during the All-Star Game festivities that he wasn't interested going anywhere else. That didn't stop the vultures from circling the Pohlad's fire sale. The Athletic's Dan Hayes says they came hot and heavy.
Byron Buxton never needed to invoke his no-trade clause, but his representatives routinely waved off interested clubs in July, including through Thursday's shocking trade deadline.
Minnesota's two-time All-Star center fielder confirmed Monday that teams engaged with his agent to gauge Buxton's interest in waiving his no-trade clause before speaking with the Twins front office. Multiple sources confirmed at least six teams contacted Buxton's agent, B.B. Abbott, about the possibility, including early in July before it was clear whether the Twins would be buyers or sellers.
One source said the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets showed the most interest in Buxton.
The Minnesota Twins had something of a choice to make when they signed Buxton to his seven-year extension for $100 million. Unlike superstar Joe Mauer before him, Buxton's injuries came before his payday. They provided reason for pause, and a contract needed to be constructed around those realities.
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Related: Byron Buxton is the Leader Carlos Correa Couldn't Be
Minnesota made the decision to show their former first round pick just how much they wanted him. It's clear he hasn't ever forgot that.
"It's always good to be wanted. Don't get me wrong. But the only place I want is Minnesota. All of my choices are easy. I ain't got but one place on my mind. That's how it'll be."
The Twins had Buxton join them on the road trip to Cleveland. He's currently on the injured list dealing with rib cartilage irritation after crashing into the wall for a catch. His presence is a steadying one though, and despite the teardown , he wants to finish the final two months strong.
Byron Buxton has plenty to play for
The Minnesota Twins currently own a 52-60 record . It's likely to get uglier the rest of the way. Byron Buxton has plenty to play for on his own though. He is having the best season of his career and should surpass 100 games played in consecutive seasons for the first time.
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Across 85 games Buxton has hit .282/.343/.561 with 23 home runs. He's within sniffing distance of his career-high 28 homers from 2022, and he should earn legitimate votes for the MVP award. His contract provides million-dollar incentives as long as he finishes within the top 10.
Related: MN Twins Interested in Former (Familiar) Top Reliever
How Buxton chooses to complete the season should set the tone for 2026. The Twins may have already seen their fate be sealed, but if the leader isn't giving away opportunities then no one should be.
It's rare that a player is indebted and aligned with a franchise like Byron Buxton has been. Maybe he learned that from Joe Mauer before him. Unfortunately for both, neither has been appreciated enough.
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