Twins center fielder Byron Buxton is determined to stay healthy as he embarks on the 2025 season, an ambitious goal considering his injury history. The 31-year-old veteran, who has not played a full season since 2017, is entering his second decade with the Minnesota team with renewed optimism.
Buxton’s confidence is rooted in his strong finish to the 2024 season. After returning from right hip inflammation on September 12, he posted an impressive slash line of .300/.340/.500, hitting two home runs and driving in seven RBIs across 12 games. This late-season surge allowed him to enjoy a relatively normal offseason, the first in years without the need for extensive rehab.
“I kept it simple: Stay healthy,” Buxton shared. “I have my own gym at home, and my trainers, strength coach, and hitting coach came to me. It was great to stay home, get everything I needed done, and be with my family, which is the most important thing.”
As the Twins kicked off full-squad workouts on Monday, Buxton appeared to be in midseason form. On the first day of training, he spent significant time on the field at Stelly Field, where he played catch, took batting practice focusing on line drives, ran the bases, and participated in live outfield drills. Buxton then faced pitchers Bailey Ober and Jorge Alcala in live batting practice.
Reflecting on the start of the new season, Buxton said, “The first day was good. It’s all about getting back into the groove and seeing everyone again. It’s the start of baseball.”
Buxton’s primary goal this season is to help the Twins reach the postseason, a journey that fell short last year after a rough September. Minnesota was eliminated despite a promising battle with the Guardians, Royals, and Tigers for a playoff spot. The team’s 9-18 record in the final month of the season sealed their fate.
“I remember it, but I’m not letting it affect this year,” Buxton stated. “I know the kind of team we have, and I’m looking forward, not back.”
During the Twins’ first full-squad meeting, manager Rocco Baldelli shared his experiences from his 2008 World Series run with the Rays, including a loss to the Phillies. Buxton, inspired by Baldelli’s hunger for success, is eager to help Minnesota reach the Fall Classic and capture the ultimate prize.
“[Baldelli] knows what we need to do to get where we want to go,” Buxton said. “Hearing his experiences and seeing his hunger only makes me want it more.”
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