Byron Buxton

Byron Buxton appeared in 126 games in 2025 — his highest total since logging 140 contests in 2017 — and delivered one of the best seasons of his career. He earned an All-Star selection, picked up MVP consideration and took home a Silver Slugger after posting career highs with 35 home runs, 83 RBI and 97 runs scored. Buxton also swiped 24 bases without being caught and ranked fourth in the American League with a .878 OPS. The underlying metrics back it up, too, as he produced a 53.8% hard-hit rate and a 17.6% barrel rate. Even in a relative best-case scenario, he still missed nearly a quarter of the season due to various injuries. Buxton will be 32 on Opening Day in 2026, and his track record suggests IL stints are more expectation than exception. While any player can get hurt, some carry more baked-in risk than others. If he comes close to repeating his 2025 output, he has league-winning upside — just be careful about drafting him as if that outcome is the baseline.

Byron Buxton powers Twins to victory over Phillies

Byron Buxton went 2-for-5 in the win over the Phillies with a home run, one RBI, and one run scored.

Fantasy Impact

The 31-year-old continues a productive stretch at the plate, posting a .900 OPS with 10 home runs and 21 RBI over his last 30 games for the Twins. After this game, Buxton's season stats include a .264 batting average with 35 home runs and 83 RBIs across 126 games.