The Minnesota Twins activated outfielder Byron Buxton from the injured list on Monday after he missed two weeks with a right hip strain. The move comes as the team begins a key series against the Cleveland Guardians.
Minnesota optioned infielder Tristan Gray to Triple-A St. Paul to clear a roster spot. Buxton, who was elected to his third All-Star Game, had been placed on the injured list on July 7 and missed the Midsummer Classic in Philadelphia.
Manager Derek Shelton said the return strengthens the lineup. "Any time we get Buck back is important," Shelton said. "But to get him back against Cleveland, playing in the division, it's a four-game set."
The 32-year-old is batting with a .907 OPS and has 25 home runs this season. The activation shifts Ryan Kreidler into the primary shortstop role while giving Alan Roden more opportunities in right field.