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Twins Outfielder Byron Buxton Set for Season Ending Hip Surgery
Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton will miss the rest of the season to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right hip.
By the EagleEyeOdds desk, 2 hours ago
Season Over for Buxton
The Minnesota Twins will have to finish their push for the postseason without one of their key players. Outfielder Byron Buxton is done for the year. The team announced that Buxton will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right hip. This surgery officially ends his season, as he will not be able to return to the field for any of the remaining games.
Buxton has been on the injured list since August 30. This is not his first struggle with hip problems this year. In fact, this is his third time on the injured list this season specifically for hip issues. The recurring injury has finally forced him to opt for surgery.
A Tough Blow for the Outfielder
The 32 year old outfielder has put up solid numbers when he has been healthy enough to play. In 93 games this season, Buxton hit .254. He also hit 25 home runs and drove in 46 runs, providing a big boost to the lineup.
Unfortunately, staying on the field has been a constant struggle for the three time All Star throughout his career. The oft injured Buxton has played in fewer than 100 games in nine of his 12 major league seasons. Despite this latest setback, there is some hope for the future. He is expected to recover from the arthroscopic procedure in time for spring training next season.
Impact on the Twins' Playoff Chase
Losing Buxton is a massive blow for the Twins as they try to keep their season alive. Entering Friday's action, Minnesota has just 16 games left in the regular season. They sit in third place in the American League Central, trailing the division leading Chicago White Sox by six games.
Their chances for a wild card spot are also slipping away. The Twins are four and a half games behind in the race for the final American League wild card spot. To make matters worse, there are three other teams ahead of Minnesota who are also trying to chase down that final spot. Without Buxton in the lineup, the road back to the postseason looks incredibly difficult for the Twins.
