Byron Buxton will remain as the designated hitter for the Minnesota Twins due to ongoing shoulder and hip issues, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune.
What happened
Byron Buxton, the Minnesota Twins’ star player, is currently limited to designated hitting duties as he deals with a sore right hip flexor and an injured right shoulder. The team has decided to prioritize Buxton’s health by keeping him in the lineup but restricting his activities to minimize the risk of further injury.[1]
Twins manager Derek Shelton acknowledged the situation, stating, “In this case right now, I just feel it’s better for him to make sure he’s in our lineup. … Right now, in my mind, it’s best for him to DH.” Despite his preference for playing center field, Buxton has adapted to the current setup, having hit a solo home run in the Twins’ recent 15-2 loss to the Chicago White Sox.
Even while not at full strength, Buxton remains a key offensive player. He has a career-high 35 home runs and 24 stolen bases from the previous season, and he is performing even better this year with a batting line of .259/.319/.579. He is also on pace for 81 extra-base hits this season.[2]
Why it matters
The Twins are aiming to keep Buxton healthy as they navigate a challenging season. His presence is critical for the team’s offensive strength, and limiting his performance to designated hitting serves as a temporary measure to prevent further health issues. The team’s ability to remain competitive hinges on Buxton’s contributions while managing his injuries.[3]
Background
On May 19, 2026, Buxton returned to the lineup after recovering from injuries. His only game back in center field occurred on May 20, when he appeared to aggravate his shoulder while sliding into a base. Since then, he has primarily played as the designated hitter, appearing in that role six times in seven games.
What’s next
The Twins will continue to evaluate Buxton’s health as they prepare for a bullpen game against the Chicago White Sox on May 28, 2026, following adjustments to their starting rotation due to Bradley’s recent return from injury.
