Minnesota Twins: Comparing current Twins Players with All-Time Greats

If you’re looking for a Byron Buxton comparison, there is no shortage of great Minnesota Twins outfielders in their history. Unfortunately, Buxton has spent much of career on the injured list, so it’s better to look at skill sets as opposed to accomplishments.

You could look back towards the Washington Senators days at Goose Goslin, but his consistency and high averages aren’t Buxton-like. Kirby Puckett and Tony Oliva are possible picks too, but they lacked the speed and defensive metrics that Buxton thrives in.

Therefore, the only Minnesota Twins player that could come close to replicating the incredible skill set of Buxton is Torii Hunter. Buxton started his career as a fleet-footed light-hitting center fielder who has since evolved into a 5-tool threat. No one in Minnesota Twins history was a better 5-tool athlete than Torii Hunter.

While playing for the Twins, he hit 20 or more home runs 7 times, stole 20 or more bases 3 times, and won 7 Gold Glove awards in centerfield.

While Buxton’s career pales in comparison to the accomplishments of Hunter, he has plenty of time to match those totals with his new contract extension. A healthy Buxton could be the key turnaround for the Twins to climb back into contention in 2022.