Minnesota Twins: Re-Ranking the 5 Twins with the Best Shot at the HOF

Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton hits a single against the Kansas City Royals. (Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports)

Minnesota Twins No. 4 Hall of Fame Candidate: Byron Buxton

What? Byron Buxton? The center fielder who has played less than 500 games over seven years? The career .248 hitter with just a Golden Glove to his name? How could Buxton have a chance? Well, let’s break it down a little bit.

For starters, Buck has already put together a 16.2 WAR by the age of 28. His defense is the best in baseball, and there’s no reason that wouldn’t continue throughout the rest of his career. Then there’s the offense.

Buxton struggled through the first four seasons of his career on offense, but it’s clear he’s finally figured it out over the last three, with his 2021 looking like potential for an incredible future. If Buxton can stay healthy, the Twins just may have another Hall of Famer on their hands.

Yes, with his injury history, it’s not likely, but if he can stay healthy and perform at those numbers, he has the skill set to succeed. Other players have followed this path (David Ortiz and Randy Johnson to name a couple) have taken a late bloomer approach to making the Hall of Fame. If he can have a consistent peak and age gracefully, don’t be surprised if he builds a case. Chances: 1%