Byron Buxton

Byron Buxton is a highly decorated baseball center fielder and designated hitter for the Minnesota Twins, known for his exceptional defense, speed, and power hitting. After being widely considered the most talented player available in the 2012 MLB draft, Byron Buxton was selected second overall by the Minnesota Twins. He signed on June 12, 2012, for a $6 million bonus, making his professional debut with the Gulf Coast Twins that same year. Buxton demonstrated five-tool potential in the minor leagues, earning Midwest League Most Valuable Player, Baseball America’s Minor League Player of the Year, and Topps Minor League Player of the Year Awards in 2013.

His Major League Baseball debut came on June 14, 2015. Buxton swiftly established himself as one of baseball’s premier defensive outfielders, earning his first Rawlings Gold Glove Award and the prestigious American League Platinum Glove Award in 2017. That year also saw him receive the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award and a Fielding Bible Award. The Twins recognized his consistent defensive excellence with the Jim Kaat Defensive Player of the Year award in both 2016 and 2017, alongside the Charles O.

Pohlad Community Service Award in 2020. In 2024, Buxton returned to center field, securing an MLB Play of the Week honor in April. For 2025, he is projected to achieve his 100th career stolen base, hit for the cycle, and complete his first 20/20 season, alongside an American League All-Star selection and Home Run Derby participation. He also supports military families through Buxton’s Battalion and co-owns an Ellianos Coffee franchise.