Minnesota Twins star Byron Buxton was removed from the lineup for Monday's series opener against the Houston Astros due to a recurrence of right hip discomfort. Manager Derek Shelton confirmed that Buxton underwent an MRI exam and will be monitored day to day. The outfielder had served as the designated hitter in Sunday's win over the Colorado Rockies.
Shelton noted that Buxton's swings appeared awkward during Sunday's game. After discussing the issue with the player and head athletic trainer Nick Paparesta, the team opted to give him rest.
"He's dealing with a little hip thing that's going on," Shelton said. "We had some imaging done, we're waiting to get back on it. Yesterday after watching him in the box, it didn't look right to me, so we had a conversation. Just giving him a day."
Buxton carries a .268/.325/.573 slash line with 25 home runs this season and is a leading candidate for the American League All-Star team. He missed time in mid-May with similar hip discomfort but has avoided the injured list in 2026. Shelton expressed hope that the current issue will not require a longer absence.
