Many Twins fans thought that, despite the disappointment the team gave them last season, Byron Buxton would at least stick around. The star center fielder has a no-trade clause, and he said, "I’m going to be a Minnesota Twin for the rest of my life" during last season's All-Star break.
However, The Athletic's Dan Hayes reported last month that Buxton could be willing to waive his no-trade clause if Minnesota trades Joe Ryan and/or Pablo López, and a recent report from USA Today's Bob Nightengale suggests that either Ryan or López will be on a different team by Opening Day. Therefore, Buxton might be dealt as well, and a recent ESPN report backs that up.
Byron Buxton reportedly willing to waive no-trade clause
ESPN's Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan ranked the MLB players who could be traded this offseason on Tuesday. In the article, Buxton was ranked fifth, with a 35% predicted chance of getting traded.
"Buxton is willing to waive his no-trade clause -- and not just for Atlanta (he's a Georgia native) -- which puts the Twins in an interesting position."
The article listed the Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, Philadelphia Phillies and Kansas City Royals as team fits for Buxton.
If Buxton is healthy, he is one of the best players in baseball, and likely the best bargain in MLB. He is owed just under $46 million for the next three seasons. Sure, he can make more through performance incentives each year, but if he does, that means he has been more than worth his salary.
If the Twins decide to move Buxton, the return will be huge. His injury history may further convince the Twins to trade him, as last season was Buxton's first year playing in over 105 games since 2017. The Twins seem dedicated to decreasing payroll, and dealing Buxton would be an easy way to do so while further strengthening their farm system.
But fans will be outraged if the Twins trade Buxton. The team would struggle with attendance unless the young players impress early next year. Minnesota's roster is talented, but trading Buxton and Ryan or López would significantly hinder the team's chances of returning to the postseason any time soon.