Team USA outfielder Byron Buxton exited early against Brazil.
Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton is representing Team USA in the World Baseball Classic this spring. His participation continues a stretch of availability that has allowed one of baseball’s most dynamic players to stay on the field more than has been typical for his career.
Entering his 12th season with Minnesota, Buxton remains one of the most impactful players in MLB when healthy. The veteran outfielder owns a .248 career batting average with 168 home runs, 436 RBIs and 523 runs scored. This production has been paired with elite defense in center field when he is not on the injured list or DHing. His speed and defensive range helped him earn a Gold Glove in 2017, and his all-around offensive production last season led to his first Silver Slugger award.
Buxton’s 2025 campaign was one of the most complete of his career. Appearing in 126 games, he hit .264 with 35 home runs and 83 RBIs while scoring 97 runs while also marking consecutive 100-game seasons for the first time in his career.
That combination of production and improved durability made Buxton a perfect addition to Team USA’s roster for the World Baseball Classic. During Team USA’s game against Brazil, however, Buxton drew concern after being hit by a pitch.
He remained in the game momentarily but later exited, which had Twins fans on edge given the outfielder’s injury history.
Fortunately, the FOX broadcast later clarified that Buxton’s removal against Brazil was precautionary, easing concerns that the hit-by-pitch could lead to a more significant issue.
Team USA eased that concern even more on Saturday. When the team posted its game-day graphic on X for Saturday’s matchup against Great Britain, Buxton was featured on it, indicating he is expected to be available to play. He is not in the starting lineup against Great Britain, but neither are some other regulars as Team USA faces a lesser opponent and is seemingly getting other players at-bats.
Buxton’s health has often been a focal point throughout his career. Since debuting in 2015, he has dealt with several injuries ranging from lower-body issues to rib and muscle strains, setbacks that have often limited his time on the field. Anytime he leaves a game, this history makes it more concerning. But all signs point to him being okay and back in the lineup on Saturday.
It was Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong who replaced Buxton in Friday's contest, so Team USA does have the necessary depth to withstand injuries. That said, as the WBC progresses, having the best of the best available will be critical given the talent other countries have.