Byron Buxton’s Trade Potential Sparks Winter Speculation
Could Byron Buxton be on the move this winter? According to a credible insider, the Minnesota Twins face a compelling decision regarding their star outfielder, with a reported 35% chance of a trade happening. The latest buzz centers around Buxton’s newfound willingness to waive his no-trade clause, a shift that intrigues many in the baseball world.
A New Perspective on No-Trade Clause
Jeff Passan of ESPN highlighted this potential development, noting Buxton is open to leaving Minnesota—not just for teams like Atlanta, where he has roots as a Georgia native. This change in stance places the Twins in a unique position. Passan pointed out, “If the paucity of frontline free agent outfielders prompts a team to make an offer for Buxton, how seriously would Minnesota take it?” The implications are significant: if Buxton is traded, could the Twins also consider moving some of their pitching assets?
Twins’ Intriguing Winter Outlook
The Minnesota Twins are poised for an intriguing offseason, with various paths available to them. Buxton’s willingness to entertain trade offers could hint at his dissatisfaction with the team’s direction. A recent report from local insider Dan Hayes adds another layer to this narrative. Hayes indicated that Buxton desires to play for a competitive team and might reconsider his trade clause for certain franchises if the Twins continue to dismantle their roster.
This notion ties back to the Twins’ recent history, having traded away ten core players prior to last season’s trade deadline. Most notably, they sent star shortstop Carlos Correa to the Astros in a deal that also involved a significant salary reduction. Buxton’s readiness to waive his no-trade clause could signal a lack of confidence in the Twins’ competitiveness heading into the 2026 season.
Pitching Staff in the Crosshairs
The landscape changes further when examining the Twins’ pitching situation. Passan mentioned a 50% likelihood that pitchers Joe Ryan or Pablo López could be traded, which aligns with earlier reports suggesting the Twins might need to make tough decisions regarding their players. With Ryan set to earn $6.1 million next season before reaching his final arbitration year in 2027, trading him or López could be a strategic move. It’s a response to the evolving labor landscape in Major League Baseball, which may soon face a lockout in 2027.
Maximizing Buxton’s Value
While these developments may seem daunting, they could present an opportunity for the Twins. Trading Buxton now, especially after a rare healthy season, might maximize his value. As the soon-to-be 32-year-old outfielder prepares for the next chapter, the stakes are high for the Twins, who are navigating a complex off-season landscape.
As the winter unfolds, all eyes will be on Minnesota. The decisions they make regarding Buxton and their pitching staff could reshape the team’s future in ways that reverberate throughout the league.
