Byron Buxton Joins Home Run Derby: Twins Star Ready to Shine

The upcoming MLB Home Run Derby looks like it’ll be a wild ride, especially now that Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton has joined the mix. On July 14, Truist Park in Atlanta will host eight of baseball’s biggest power hitters for a night of pure spectacle.

Buxton, a Georgia native making his Derby debut, will go up against Washington Nationals’ James Wood, Atlanta Braves’ Ronald Acuña Jr., and Seattle Mariners’ Cal Raleigh, among others. You don’t want to miss this—here’s what’s up with Buxton’s big moment and why the Derby’s got everyone buzzing.

Byron Buxton Takes Center Stage in His Home State

Byron Buxton’s used to big moments, but the 2023 Home Run Derby feels different for the 31-year-old. It’s his first Derby, and it’s happening right in his home state of Georgia.

He grew up in Baxley, so hitting bombs at Truist Park means a lot—especially with family and old friends watching. This season, Buxton’s already belted 20 home runs, which puts him right in the thick of things as a real contender.

Buxton’s family’s all in, too. His 11-year-old son, Brix, can’t wait to see his dad take the stage—pretty sure that’s going to be a memory that sticks for a long time.

Continuing the Minnesota Twins’ Home Run Derby Legacy

Buxton becomes the eighth Twin to ever take a Derby swing. Only one Twin, Justin Morneau in 2008, has actually won it, so there’s a little extra pressure and maybe a bit of hope riding on Buxton.

Twins fans have their eyes glued to the stats—Buxton’s power numbers this season are no joke. Whether he can match Morneau’s feat is up in the air, but just being there says a lot about the Twins’ knack for producing big hitters.

Other Big Names and Notable Absences

Of course, the Derby’s loaded with stars. Buxton will share the spotlight with Ronald Acuña Jr., James Wood, and Cal Raleigh. These guys all bring something different, and together, they should put on a show worth talking about.

Some big names are missing, though. Two-time champ Pete Alonso from the Mets is sitting out, even though he’s got 20 homers and made the All-Star team—he says he needs the break. Kyle Schwarber, the Phillies’ slugger leading the NL with 27 homers, also passed this year, but he hinted he might jump in next year when the All-Star Game heads to Philly. That’s something for Phillies fans to keep in mind.

Why This Year’s Derby Is a Must-Watch

This year’s Derby just feels special. Truist Park’s a great venue, and the event really kicks off the MLB’s midseason party with some serious energy.

For Buxton, though, it’s bigger than the trophy. Coming home to Georgia and having his son there makes it all hit a little harder. It’s the kind of story that sticks with you—more than just a contest, it’s a celebration of family, heart, and the real human side of the game.

Final Thoughts

With the countdown to July 14 underway, Byron Buxton’s entry into the 2023 Home Run Derby brings a fresh spark to MLB’s summer lineup. He’s hit 20 home runs this season and has a personal tie to the venue.

Buxton seems ready to make an impact in more ways than one. Whether he walks away with the trophy or not, fans have already noticed his genuine enthusiasm and his pride in representing the Minnesota Twins and his Georgia roots.

If you’re tuning in for this year’s Derby, keep an eye on Buxton. He’s got the talent, the heart, and the kind of story that makes baseball feel special.

Will he carve out his place in the history books? Maybe, maybe not—but this is definitely his chance to shine.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Twins’ Buxton to take part in Home Run Derby