Phillies predicted to trade for $100M Gold Glove winner, 2-time All-Star to pair with Bryce Harper originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Minnesota Twins endured an entire offseason filled with trade rumors surrounding Byron Buxton, and those whispers have started to feel all too real. For a player who has spent his entire career with one organization, the speculation has made things uncomfortable for the veteran center fielder.

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“It’s been months of upheavals for the Minnesota Twins and, because of roster changes, turnover in the dugout and front office, and an uncertain commitment level from ownership, the future is uncertain. That uncertainty hasn’t sat well with franchise cornerstone Byron Buxton, especially insofar as his future with the Twins is concerned,” CBS Sports’ Dayn Perry wrote.

Buxton does have a full no-trade clause and can decline any deal the Twins attempt to make. However, one destination he could consider waiving that clause for is the Atlanta Braves, the team he grew up rooting for.

“It could be a case where, if he gets a little disgruntled, he can say, if Atlanta wants me, I’d love to go there,” Bob Nightengale said on Foul Territory.

FanSided’s Mark Powell and Wynston Wilcox believe the Philadelphia Phillies should try to swing a trade for Buxton if the opportunity presents itself.

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“It makes sense for the Phillies to get aggressive in adding to their roster if they want to keep up with the Dodgers. The Phillies threw a massive extension as the Schwarber to make sure they can remain one of the top teams in the National League. Adding Buxton just gives them one more solid hitter to keep up with the juggernaut Dodgers,” Powell wrote.

There’s little doubt Buxton would be an upgrade at any outfield position while also providing another strong bat in the lineup. Meanwhile, the Twins appear to be slowly damaging their relationship with their franchise cornerstone, making a trade feel increasingly inevitable.

The Phillies are actively looking to add talent to improve their chances of winning the NL East for a third straight season. With the New York Mets expected to be a tough out, acquiring Buxton would not only strengthen Philadelphia’s hold on the division but also give them a roster capable of challenging the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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