The New York Mets are actively looking to improve their center field situation ahead of the trade deadline at the end of July.
Recently, Bob Nightengale reported that the Mets had shown interest in Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox. If those talks fall through, they may turn their attention to Minnesota Twins outfielder, who is under a $100 million contract.
Although the Twins haven’t publicly stated they’re shopping Him, MLB insider Buster Olney believes it’s a possibility.
“They could consider putting Byron Buxton, their talented but frequently injured center fielder, on the trade market,” Olney wrote. “Buxton is healthy, performing well, and signed for three more years at $15.1 million annually.”
If the Mets do pursue him, they’d also take on the rest of his $15.1 million salary for this season—an amount that’s unlikely to deter owner Steve Cohen.
In 148 at-bats this season, Buxton is hitting .264 with nine home runs, 26 RBIs, and eight stolen bases.
Still, durability remains the biggest concern. Now 31, Buxton has played more than 100 games in just two full seasons (not counting the shortened 2020 season).
Adding him would give the Mets a significant upgrade over current options like Jose Siri and Tyrone Taylor. However, despite Buxton’s contract control making him a valuable asset, his injury history could limit what the Twins receive in return.
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