The Los Angeles Dodgers have long been near-perfect on paper, but one area of concern remains: the outfield. Last year’s signing of Michael Conforto failed to deliver, leaving the Dodgers eager for a fresh start at one position. With Andy Pages and Teoscar Hernández likely occupying the other spots, a proven big-league star could complete an already formidable lineup.
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Byron Buxton Emerges as Prime Target For Dodgers
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ESPN’s Tim Keown recently highlighted Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton as the ideal candidate for the Dodgers to pursue. “Move Andy Pages to left, slot Buxton into the top half of the lineup and go for three in a row,” Keown wrote. At 31, Buxton has a history of injuries, but he just completed his most consistent season, playing 126 games and posting career highs in home runs and RBIs.
Despite his no-trade clause, Buxton’s stance may be softening. With the Twins trading several stars at the July deadline, Buxton could reconsider if Minnesota moves All-Star pitcher Joe Ryan. “Enough is never enough for the Dodgers,” Keown added. “This offseason’s installment of making sure they have too much is the acquisition of the best available player at the position they may actually believe they need to upgrade.”
Braves Also in Pursuit
The Atlanta Braves are another logical suitor. Buxton, a Georgia native, could bolster a Braves lineup already featuring Ronald Acuna Jr. and Matt Olson. Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel reported, “Buxton is willing to waive his no-trade clause — and not just for Atlanta — which puts the Twins in an interesting position.” Passan and McDaniel wrote. “If the paucity of frontline free agent outfielders prompts a team to make an offer for Buxton, how seriously would Minnesota take it? And if Buxton goes, does that mean the Twins would be open to dealing some of their pitching, too? The Twins are one of the most fascinating teams this winter because of the possibilities at their disposal.”
The Braves’ primary challenge would be reconciling Buxton’s arrival with Michael Harris, their 2025 center fielder, who hit .249 with 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases. Still, the opportunity to add Buxton’s speed, power, and defensive ability makes the potential trade compelling.
Why It Matters
If the Dodgers were to acquire Buxton and he remains healthy for a full season, the team’s outfield would be nearly unstoppable. With Andy Pages, Teoscar Hernández, and Buxton in the mix, LA’s offense would be both deep and versatile, adding to a roster already built for a three-peat. While the probability of a trade is estimated at just 35 percent, the rumor alone underscores the lengths the Dodgers could go to maintain their championship window.
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