Byron Buxton, the Minnesota Twins’ center fielder and native of Georgia, has been announced as the fourth competitor in this year’s Home Run Derby. The event is set for next Monday night at Trust Park in Atlanta, just before the All-Star Game. Buxton, who is 31 years old, will be the eighth Twins player to compete in the Derby since 2008, the last time when Justin Morneau from the Twins won the title.
Buxton will compete alongside Nationals outfielder James Wood, Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., and Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh in the eight-player contest. Currently, Buxton has 20 home runs this season. Originally from Buxley, Georgia, Buxton was the second overall pick in the 2012 draft. Reflecting on his second All-Star selection, Buxton shared his son’s excitement; his 11-year-old son Brix often plays the “MLB: The Show” video game and wants to bring him a towel and Gatorade during the Derby, highlighting their close bond.
Notably absent from the Derby will be New York Mets slugger and two-time champion Pete Alonso, Philadelphia designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, and Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., all of whom confirmed their decision not to participate. Alonso, who has 20 home runs this year and was selected as an All-Star Reserve for the National League, stated he wasn’t motivated to compete this year, preferring to focus on helping his team win in the season’s second half. Schwarber, with 27 home runs this season and also an All-Star, hinted he might join the Derby next year when the All-Star Game is in Philadelphia.
Fan Take: This announcement is exciting for baseball fans as Byron Buxton’s participation brings hometown energy and adds depth to the Home Run Derby competition. With some big names sitting out, it opens opportunities for emerging stars to shine, potentially bringing new excitement and fresh rivalries to the sport.
