Byron Buxton Officially Back
Despite the winning, there has still been a lack of production from the lineup. Rocco Baldelli's team has been carried by the pitching staff this season and there's always an opportunity to score more runs.
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After suffering a concussion in a collision with teammate Carlos Correa on May 15, the star centerfield is back in the lineup.
Minnesota Twins activate Byron Buxton
Byron Buxton was placed on the 7-day concussion injured list on May 16. He wound up missing 11 games for the Minnesota Twins but will rejoin the lineup Friday night in Seattle.
Carson McCusker was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul following the Twins game Wednesday against the Tampa Bay Rays. He quickly reported to Omaha and played Thursday night. That move opened a roster spot for Buxton, who has traveled with Minnesota on the current road trip.
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Byron Buxton returns as the team leader in fWAR at 1.9. He returns to a .261/.312/.522 slash line with 10 home runs. Aside from this collision, he has been remarkably healthy this season and is running at speeds we haven't seen in years.
Hopefully the concussion or any lingering effects don't impact Buxton's overall health. He has played free in the field and on the basepaths this year while enjoying the clean bill of health. Buxton is a perfect 8-for-8 in stolen base attempts.
Related: Three Weaknesses the Minnesota Twins Should Address Before MLB Trade Deadline
A Minnesota Twins lineup that has been stretched, especially in the outfield, will welcome back their leader with open arms.
Matt Wallner on the way for MN Twins too
It's not just Byron Buxton that the Minnesota Twins will be getting back this weekend. Slugging outfielder Matt Wallner is expected to join the team on Saturday. He has been on the shelf since April 15 with a hamstring strain.
In six Triple-A rehab games Wallner slashed .320/.370/.960 with five home runs. He launched dingers in three-straight games to end his time in St. Paul.
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Wallner will return to a .263/.373/.474 slash line for Minnesota. Prior to his injury he was among the Twins most dangerous hitters. Baldelli will be looking for his corner outfielder to pick up where he left off.
A logical option candidate to create room for Wallner is outfielder DaShawn Keirsey Jr. He has provided defense and speed this season, but is batting just .111/.138/.159 through 65 plate appearances.
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