Everyone loves Byron Buxton, including three-time MVP Aaron Judge. How could you not? Buxton, when healthy, is among the best hitters, fielders, and runners in all of baseball. He's exciting. He's consistent. He's the perfect make-up for a baseball superstar.
Twins already knew this, but now Buxton being the game's best center fielder is even more official. MLB The Show unveiled their ratings for each player ahead of the 2026 season, and Buxton's 89 overall rating is the highest among all generals of the outfield. Applaud yourselves, Twins fans. We have the best player at one of the most important positions.
Twins superstar Byron Buxton is the highest-rated center fielder in MLB the Show 2026
Rumbling to his second All-Star Game in 2025, Buxton won his first Silver Slugger after powering a career-high 35 home runs with 24 stolen bases, 21 doubles, seven triples, 97 runs scored, and .878 OPS.
The next highest center fielder is Seattle's Julio Rodriguez, who was given an 86 rating. Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Cubs, who is Buxton's teammate on Team USA, is rated third at 85 alongside Angels great Mike Trout. Padres youngster Jackson Merrill rounds out the Top 5 with an 83 rating.
BYRON BUXTON HOME RUN!! pic.twitter.com/ONmGxEvCn6
— Minnesota Twins (@Twins) March 4, 2026
There's a pretty hefty dropoff after these players, so if you have one of these five guys, you are in pretty good shape. To have the top dog of the pack is even better. We're excited for Buxton to make a name for himself on an international level at the World Baseball Classic, but even more so ready for him to unload in the 2026 regular season. MLB The Show's latest ratings have Twins fans even more amped for games to roll around.
Does Buxton have another All-Star nod, Silver Slugger, Platinum Glove in his near future? He is capable of all these things. Let's get the season started and re-confirm that Buxton is among the best in baseball.