The Minnesota Twins are turning heads with a 9-7 start to the 2026 season, but one of their brightest stars has yet to shine. Center fielder Byron Buxton, the expected anchor of the lineup, is mired in a significant early-season slump.

Through the first 14 games, Buxton's numbers are a cause for concern: a .182 batting average, a .258 on-base percentage, a .531 OPS, zero home runs, and just one RBI across 55 at-bats. For a player of his caliber, this slow start is far from the explosive production the Twins' offense was counting on.

In a telling move, the Twins made a lineup decision for Sunday's series finale against the Toronto Blue Jays. With the team riding a hot streak, Buxton found himself on the bench, with James Outman getting the start in center field. This was particularly notable given that Buxton has remained healthy and available, appearing in nearly every game so far.

The decision seemed to pay immediate dividends. The Twins secured an 8-2 victory without him, clinching their second straight series win and improving to a record tied for the best in the American League. Winning six of their last seven games without Buxton's typical offensive firepower is a testament to the team's depth.

However, for the Twins to sustain this success as legitimate contenders, they will need their franchise cornerstone to return to form. Buxton's pedigree is undeniable: a former Platinum Glove and Gold Glove winner, a Silver Slugger, and a two-time All-Star across his 12-year career, all spent with Minnesota since being drafted second overall in 2012.

The silver lining in this slow start is Buxton's health. After a career often hampered by injuries, he has been available, missing only one game in April after a scare when he was hit by a pitch. His presence on the field is the first step, and the Twins will be hoping a day of observation sparks the turnaround they need from their star center fielder.