Twins Announce Byron Buxton News After Removal From Lineup

Byron Buxton is starting to heat up as the Minnesota Twins season continues. After a sluggish start to the year, the 32-year-old veteran center fielder has posted a .277 batting average, .336 on-base percentage, 1.010 OPS, 12 home runs and 19 RBIs across his last 23 games.

He has also remained healthy for most of the season, suggesting he may have turned a corner on the durability front, which has been the only thing holding him back throughout his 12-year career.

Buxton has continued to play excellent defense in the outfield and has showcased his speed by stealing four bases without being caught. He is well on his way toward a second straight All-Star selection.

Unfortunately for Twins fans, Thursday morning brought the type of news they did not want to see. Buxton was originally listed in the starting nine, leading off and getting a day off his feet as the designated hitter. Moments before first pitch, however, he was removed from the lineup. Josh Bell entered in his place at DH.

Shortly after, the Twins announced the reason for Buxton's removal, via sideline reporter Audra Martin. "Byron Buxton has been scratched from the lineup with right hip flexor soreness," Martin wrote on X.

It is unclear whether Buxton entered the day with discomfort in his hip, which may have been why he was originally penciled in as the designated hitter instead of his usual spot in center field. Still, it is disappointing to see him dealing with another physical setback, and the hope is that it does not require a stint on the injured list.

Byron Buxton has been scratched from the line up with right hip flexor soreness.

— Audra Martin (@Audra_Martin) May 14, 2026

Buxton being healthy has been one of the only bright spots for the Twins this season. They enter Thursday's series finale against the Miami Marlins sitting five games under .500 at 19-24 and appear likely to be sellers once again at this year's trade deadline.

The organization has made it clear they do not intend to trade Buxton, their homegrown superstar, but the way he is playing would make him one of the most valuable players on the market if they ever reconsidered.

For now, the Twins will monitor Buxton closely, hoping this latest issue is not serious as they try to salvage their season.

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This story was originally published May 14, 2026 at 12:18 PM.