Byron Buxton Trade Talks Heat Up: Twins Face Intriguing Offseason Decisions
Just a few months ago, Byron Buxton made it clear: he wanted to be a Twin for life. But in baseball, things can change fast - especially in the offseason. Now, with reports surfacing that Buxton is open to waiving his no-trade clause, the Minnesota Twins suddenly find themselves at the center of some of the winter’s most compelling trade chatter.
Let’s be clear: Buxton holds the cards here. His contract includes a no-trade clause, giving him final say on any potential move.
But according to a recent report, he’s not just open to leaving - he’s open to going just about anywhere, not only to his home state of Georgia. That’s a significant shift, and it opens the door for Minnesota to explore a move that once seemed off the table.
This isn’t just about one player. Buxton’s availability could reshape the Twins’ entire offseason strategy.
With a relatively thin free-agent market for outfielders, Buxton becomes one of the most attractive trade chips available - a dynamic, elite-level center fielder with power, speed, and three years of team control at a very reasonable $15 million per year. That’s a rare combination, and it’s going to get the phones ringing.
The Twins are reportedly pegging the odds of a Buxton trade at around 35%, which might sound low until you consider how many teams could use a player like him. The Braves, Mets, Tigers, Reds, Phillies, and Royals have all been floated as potential suitors. While an intra-division deal seems unlikely - Minnesota probably isn’t eager to see Buxton patrolling center field in Kansas City 19 times a year - the list of interested teams could grow quickly.
And here’s where it gets even more interesting: if the Twins are willing to move Buxton, does that mean they’re open to dealing from their pitching depth too? That’s the kind of pivot that could signal a broader retooling, not a full rebuild, but something more strategic - a chance to reshape the roster while the value is high.
From a performance standpoint, Buxton is coming off arguably the most consistent season of his career. He set career highs in plate appearances (542) and WAR (5.0), showing a level of durability and production that’s eluded him in the past. At 31, it’s fair to ask whether he’s finally cracked the code on staying healthy - or if 2025 was simply a year when everything clicked.
That’s the gamble for any team looking to acquire him. But it’s also the opportunity.
If Buxton can stay on the field, he’s a game-changer - a Gold Glove-caliber defender with 30-homer power and elite baserunning instincts. For a contender looking to push over the top, he’s the kind of player who can make a difference in October.
For the Twins, it’s a tougher call. Buxton has been the face of the franchise for years, a homegrown star who’s battled through injuries and still managed to flash MVP-caliber talent. Trading him now, after his most complete season, would be a cold, calculated move - but maybe the right one.
This is the kind of decision that defines an offseason. Do the Twins double down on their current core, or do they pivot and cash in on one of their most valuable assets? With Buxton reportedly willing to talk trade, Minnesota suddenly has options - and the rest of the league is watching closely.