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The Minnesota Twins have reinstated key outfielder Byron Buxton from the 10-day injury list ahead of a crucial series against the Cleveland Guardians.
Buxton was sidelined since July 7 due to a right hip strain, but the Twins have their vital run-producer back in the lineup. They are also getting Buxton back before the Aug. 3 trade deadline, which is a pivotal stretch that will determine whether the Twins are buyers or sellers.
The Twins are currently sitting around the .500 mark with a 49- 51 record and sit four games behind the AL Central division leading Chicago White Sox.
Buxton's return provides the Twins with an immediate power boost in the lineup. Buxton has been an offensive catalyst batting .271 with 25 home runs and 16 doubles across 75 games for the Twins this season.
Byron Buxton's value weighs heavy for Twins' success
The Twins are lucky to get their three-time All-Star to face the division rival Guardians, who remain three games ahead of them in the AL Central. Having their best power hitter back in the lineup is crucial for the Twins to take down the Guardians. Starter Joe Ryan will face Tanner Bibee on the mound in the first of four games in the series.
Buxton serves as a notable anchor for the Twins offense as a massive power threat who hit a career-best 35 homers last season. Buxton is relishing one of the best power seasons of his career and has held an impressive .903 OPS.
The Twins are currently battling in a tight AL Central and wild-card race, and his presence in the lineup is essential not only for his lethal power bat but also his defensive value. In center field, Buxton provides elite range and stability with a 4 Outs Above Average (OAA) that sits in the 88th percentile along with a sprint speed of 29.9 seconds per feet.
With Buxton in the lineup, the Twins have a better chance of being buyers ahead of the deadline. Buxton will be batting second in the lineup against the Guardians, who are coming off a series loss from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
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