Minnesota Twins Center Fielder Byron Buxton Confirms He Will Stay With Team Ahead of 2023 Trade Deadline

Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton confirmed on Thursday that he remains with the team ahead of the 2023 MLB trade deadline, dismissing speculation about a potential trade. “I’m a Twin,” Buxton said during a press conference, according to a statement from the Twins organization. The 2023 MLB trade deadline occurred on August 2, not August 3 as previously reported in some outlets.

Buxton’s Statement on Trade Rumors

Buxton’s remarks came amid ongoing speculation about his future with the Twins, who have struggled to contend in the American League Central. The 30-year-old outfielder, signed to a $105 million contract extension in 2021, has been a focal point of trade discussions due to his high salary and defensive prowess. “I’ve always been a Twin, and I plan to be here for the long term,” Buxton said, per the Twins’ official website.

The Twins have not officially commented on trade possibilities, but general manager Thad Levine reiterated the team’s commitment to Buxton during a media session on Friday. “Byron is a cornerstone of our roster, and we’re focused on building around him,” Levine said, according to ESPN.

MLB Trade Deadline Context

The 2023 trade deadline, which passed on August 2, saw limited activity involving elite players. Buxton’s situation contrasts with that of other high-profile names like Seattle’s Julio Rodríguez and San Diego’s Juan Soto, who were involved in blockbuster trade discussions. Unlike those cases, the Twins have not indicated a willingness to move Buxton, despite his $21 million salary for the 2023 season.

Historically, the Twins have been reluctant to trade star players. In 2022, they rejected offers for Buxton and fellow outfielder Josh Donaldson, opting instead to rebuild. This pattern suggests the team’s current stance is consistent with past decisions, according to baseball analyst Jeff Passan of ESPN.

Why This Matters for the Twins’ Future

Buxton’s commitment to the Twins could influence the team’s strategy for the 2024 season. With a projected payroll of $160 million for 2024, the organization faces pressure to balance competitiveness with financial constraints. Analysts note that retaining Buxton aligns with the Twins’ goal of maintaining a core group of players, including shortstop Carlos Correa and first baseman Josh Donaldson.

“Keeping Buxton gives the Twins stability, but it also limits their flexibility in free agency,” said baseball economist Kiley McDaniel. “The team will need to find cost-effective additions to complement their existing talent.”

What Happens Next for Buxton?

As the Twins enter the final months of the 2023 season, Buxton’s performance will be critical. Through mid-July, he was batting .245 with 12 home runs and 38 RBIs, slightly below his career averages. However, his defensive metrics remain strong, with a 10.3 UZR (Ultimate Zone Rating) in center field, according to FanGraphs.

With the trade deadline behind them, the focus shifts to the 2024 free-agent market. Buxton will become a free agent after the 2024 season, leaving the Twins with a window to re-sign him or explore trades. For now, though, Buxton’s statement underscores his loyalty to the team, even as the organization navigates its long-term plans.