Minnesota Twins Injury Update: Byron Buxton Avoids IL, Royce Lewis Returns, Mick Abel Progresses, Alan Roden Starts Rehab
The Minnesota Twins received a mix of encouraging injury news and roster updates this weekend, highlighted by center fielder Byron Buxton avoiding a trip to the injured list, the return of Royce Lewis, and continued recovery progress for pitching prospect Mick Abel and outfielder Alan Roden.
Byron Buxton Avoids Injured List After Shoulder Scare
Minnesota Twins star center fielder Byron Buxton escaped a potentially serious injury after suffering a right shoulder contusion during Friday night’s game against the Kansas City Royals.
The injury occurred in spectacular fashion when Buxton made another highlight-reel catch in center field, crashing hard into the outfield wall while tracking down a deep fly ball. Despite the painful collision, Buxton remained on the field and completed the defensive half-inning after consulting with the training staff and manager Derek Shelton.
However, once the Twins returned to the dugout, Buxton reported discomfort in his right shoulder. As a precaution, Minnesota removed him from the game before his next at-bat, with infielder Tristan Gray entering as a pinch hitter.
Fortunately for the Twins, Buxton has avoided an immediate stint on the injured list. He was absent from Saturday’s lineup, and with Minnesota scheduled for an off day on Monday, the club may choose to rest him again on Sunday before targeting a return on Tuesday.
Given Buxton’s previous shoulder issues, the Twins could once again use him primarily as a designated hitter when he returns. Last month, the veteran outfielder dealt with a similar injury to the same shoulder and spent time away from center field to reduce stress on the joint.
Keeping Buxton healthy remains a priority for Minnesota, as he has been one of the club’s most important offensive and defensive contributors throughout the season.
Royce Lewis Returns Following Dominant Triple-A Performance
The Twins welcomed back infielder Royce Lewis on Saturday after an impressive rehabilitation stint with Triple-A St. Paul.
During his 13-game assignment with the Saints, Lewis absolutely overwhelmed opposing pitchers. The former No. 1 overall pick posted a remarkable .340 batting average with a .417 on-base percentage and an incredible .868 slugging percentage. He also launched eight home runs, collected four doubles, drove in 19 runs, and produced a staggering 214 wRC+.
Lewis returned to the major league lineup against the Royals, starting at second base and batting seventh. Later in the game, he shifted to first base while Luke Keaschall moved to second after entering as a pinch hitter.
Although Lewis did not record a hit in his return, there were several encouraging signs. In his first plate appearance, he nearly beat out an infield single before replay review overturned the safe call. Later, he demonstrated excellent plate discipline by drawing a six-pitch walk with runners in scoring position.
Lewis eventually finished the game by striking out looking on a full-count pitch that barely caught the inside corner, leaving the tying run stranded as Kansas City secured a narrow 3-2 victory.
Despite the loss, the return of Lewis provides a significant boost to Minnesota’s lineup as the team looks to remain competitive in the American League playoff race.
Mick Abel Continues Recovery With Live Batting Practice
Another positive development for the Twins came from pitching prospect Mick Abel, who took an important step forward in his recovery.
Abel threw a two-inning live batting practice session at Target Field on Thursday, totaling 37 pitches. According to reports, his fastball reached 97 mph during the workout, an encouraging sign considering he has not appeared in a game since April 14.
If Abel experiences no setbacks, the organization plans to have him throw another live session next week or potentially begin a minor league rehab assignment.
His progress comes at a crucial time for Minnesota. Starting pitcher Bailey Ober is expected to miss approximately one month due to a mild right elbow flexor strain, creating additional pressure on the club’s pitching depth.
With Abel steadily moving closer to game action, the Twins could soon receive another valuable reinforcement for their rotation.
Alan Roden Begins Rehab Assignment
Outfielder Alan Roden also reached an important milestone in his recovery process.
Roden has been sidelined since April 24 after suffering a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder. On Saturday, he officially began his rehabilitation assignment with the Florida Complex League Twins.
In his first game back, Roden showed strong plate discipline by drawing three walks while striking out once in a seven-inning contest against the FCL Red Sox.
Before the injury, Roden was enjoying a productive season with Triple-A St. Paul, posting a .275 batting average, a .425 on-base percentage, and a .464 slugging percentage across 19 games.
If his rehab progresses smoothly, Roden could eventually provide additional outfield depth for Minnesota later this season.
Twins Receive Much-Needed Positive News
While Byron Buxton’s injury initially caused concern, the overall outlook for the Minnesota Twins has improved considerably over the weekend.
Buxton has avoided the injured list, Royce Lewis is back in the major leagues after a dominant Triple-A stretch, Mick Abel continues to move closer to returning to the mound, and Alan Roden has officially resumed game action.
As injuries have tested Minnesota’s roster throughout the season, these developments offer renewed optimism for a team hoping to strengthen its playoff push in the weeks ahead.
