Minnesota Twins Make Byron Buxton Change Before Tigers Game

The Minnesota Twins are making an adjustment as they look to generate some more offense in 2026, and it involves their franchise superstar, Byron Buxton. After a slow start at the plate, the Twins are turning back to a familiar approach in hopes of getting their center fielder going. Through the first stretch of the season, Minnesota has experimented with different leadoff hitters, but the latest move signals a shift toward what has worked in the past.

The Twins announced their lineup for Monday’s game against the Detroit Tigers, and Buxton was moved up in the batting order to leadoff for the first time this season. It is a notable change considering Buxton had hit second in each of the team’s first eight games, while players like Kody Clemens and Trevor Larnach rotated through the leadoff spot. However, this move aligns more closely with how the Twins utilized Buxton during his excellent 2025 campaign.

Twins’ first real lineup shakeup of the season: Byron Buxton is back in the leadoff spot. Trevor Larnach takes over the No. 2 spot and Luke Keaschall stays at No.

3. — Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) April 6, 2026 Last season, Buxton started 93 of his 126 games in the leadoff role, where he thrived as both a power threat and table-setter. The Twins are likely hoping a return to that spot will help him shake off his early slump.