Phillies reportedly interested in Twins OF Byron Buxton

Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton (25) hits a single in the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at Target Field. David Berding-USA TODAY Sports

Phillies reportedly interested in Twins outfielder Byron Buxton

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 7/16/21

The Minnesota Twins, who are 39-50 this season and 15 games behind the first-place Chicago White Sox in the AL Central, are expected to sell ahead of this month's trade deadline.

Oft-injured outfielder Byron Buxton, who will become a free agent after the 2022 season, could reportedly be moved. According to MLB Network's Jon Heyman, the Philadelphia Phillies "would be at or near the front of the line" if Buxton becomes available.

The Phillies would be at or near the front of the line if Byron Buxton became available. As @Ken_Rosenthal said the Twins are first attempting to lock him up. Tricky negotiation tough: superstar who’s been hurt a lot.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 16, 2021

The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal reported Friday that the Twins offered Buxton a long-term contract extension worth more than $70 million. He added that if an agreement isn't reached, the 27-year-old would likely be on the move this summer or in the offseason.

Buxton is currently on the injured list with a fractured left hand. He has been hampered by injuries since being drafted in 2012 and has played more than 100 games in a season just once in his seven-year career.

The former Gold Glove winner is hitting .369/.409/.767 with 10 home runs and 19 RBI in 27 games this season.

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