Twins Activate Byron Buxton for Field of Dreams Game vs. Phillies

Byron Buxton returns to the Twins' starting lineup for Thursday's game in Iowa after missing 14 contests due to a right hip impingement.

Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton has been activated off the injured list to start in Thursday night's Field of Dreams game against the Philadelphia Phillies in Iowa. The 32-year-old outfielder returns to the lineup after missing 14 games due to a right hip impingement. Entering this special site contest, the Twins hold a 60-62 record, placing them 3½ games behind the Chicago White Sox in the American League Central and a half game out of the final AL wild-card position.

Buxton currently carries a .263 batting average with 25 home runs, 45 RBIs, and seven stolen bases across 82 games this season. However, the former second overall pick in the 2012 draft has not recorded a home run since June 22. Since his previous return from the injured list on July 20, he has struggled at the plate, posting a .160 average with no extra-base hits. This latest 14-game absence followed a week-long stint where he reaggravated the same hip injury that previously cost him nine games and a starting spot in the All-Star Game.

Roster Management and Injury History

Major League Baseball permitted a 27th player for this specific event, allowing the Twins to activate Buxton without executing a corresponding roster move. Manager Derek Shelton noted that the team must balance the need for their best lineup with the necessity of keeping the outfielder healthy for the final quarter of the regular season. Shelton described Buxton as a "thoroughbred" who operates at top speed, necessitating careful management to avoid further setbacks.

Prior to the game, Buxton spent time on the Iowa field—located near the 1989 film site—playing catch with his 12-year-old son, Brixton. The location holds personal significance for the Georgia native, who played for the Twins' Class A affiliate in Cedar Rapids in 2013, situated roughly one hour south of the Field of Dreams site. Buxton expressed that the atmosphere of the venue could provide a spark to help him turn the corner during a difficult stretch of the season.

Statistical Outlook for the Twins

The Twins' postseason aspirations rely heavily on Buxton’s production during the remaining schedule. Before his recent injury struggles, he provided significant power, yet he remains in a slump regarding extra-base hits. The team is currently fighting to close a 0.5-game gap for the final wild-card berth. Shelton emphasized that Buxton "looks good" and is in a "good spot" physically heading into the matchup against Philadelphia.

Buxton's return marks his second activation from the IL in less than a month. After his July 20 return, he lasted only seven days before the hip impingement forced him back to the sidelines. The team now enters the stretch run with less than one-fourth of the season remaining, hoping the center fielder can maintain his health and rediscover the form that led to 25 home runs earlier in the year. The special site game serves as the backdrop for his attempt to revitalize a season hampered by repeated hip issues.