Byron Buxton was removed from the Minnesota lineup before first pitch against Miami with right hip flexor soreness, prompting a batting-order shuffle.
Minnesota’s lineup was thrown off shortly before first pitch Thursday after Byron Buxton was scratched from the game against the Miami Marlins with soreness in his right hip flexor.
The Twins announced the late change roughly two hours before the start of the contest, with Buxton originally scheduled to bat leadoff as the designated hitter in a game that ended 9-1 for Minnesota.
With Buxton out, Austin Martin was moved into the leadoff spot, and Josh Bell took over as designated hitter.. The adjustment also came during a packed stretch for Minnesota’s lineup. including the earlier optioning of Matt Wallner to Triple-A St.. Paul.. That move opened additional outfield opportunities for Martin.
Buxton’s absence was notable given how productive he has been recently.. After homering again Wednesday night. the 32-year-old had already piled up 15 home runs in his previous 26 games dating back to April 13. the most in MLB over that span and two more than Kyle Schwarber.. Thursday’s start had also been part of a broader power surge that has produced his 23rd career leadoff homer and his third of the season.
Even with a slower start to the year, Buxton entered Thursday tied for second in the American League with 15 home runs and tied for third across the majors. Over his last 23 games, he was hitting .277 with a .336 on-base percentage and a 1.010 OPS, adding 12 home runs and 19 RBIs.
His timeline-long numbers also reinforce why the Twins’ decision to hold him out late mattered.. Since May 14. 2025. Buxton has hit 41 home runs in 128 games. and he has 50 homers over his last 162 games dating back to April 1. 2025.. He is currently on pace for 56 home runs this season, which would surpass his previous career high of 35 set in 2025.
There has been production beyond the bat as well. In center field, Buxton has continued to contribute defensively and has stolen four bases without being caught.
Instead of the leadoff role, Martin stepped forward as Minnesota worked through the late reshuffle against Miami, with the Twins still able to secure the win despite losing their star center fielder for the lineup.
Byron Buxton Minnesota Twins Miami Marlins MLB hip flexor soreness Austin Martin