The Minnesota Twins front office is not interested in trading superstar outfielder Byron Buxton despite growing league interest ahead of the August 3 trade deadline, according to reporting from Dan Hayes of The Athletic on May 22, 2026.
Speculation intensified after ESPN journalist Buster Olney publicly linked the 32-year-old Georgia native to the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves as a potential right-handed outfield target.
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The Braves currently hold a 35-16 record and lead the Philadelphia Phillies by 9.5 games, ranking first in Major League Baseball in team batting average and slugging percentage.
According to Olney, the Twins could potentially initiate a conversation with their star outfielder regarding a roster rebuild if the club continues to struggle in the American League wild card race.
"Although Byron Buxton has a full no-trade clause, the Twins could always approach him, present a teardown reality to him, and give him the opportunity to go elsewhere and contend for a championship; he'd perfectly fit the needs of the Braves and other clubs," wrote Olney.
Olney previously raised the possibility during a radio broadcast in Atlanta, noting that Buxton possesses total contractual control over his playing destination and has historically resisted leaving Minnesota.
"I think at some point the name of Byron Buxton is gonna come up for the Atlanta Braves," said Olney on 680 The Fan in Atlanta on Monday.
The journalist noted that Buxton did not request a move last season during a major roster clearance by the organization.
