Padres called Twins about potential Byron Buxton trade originally appeared on The Sporting News

The San Diego Padres were one of the biggest buyers at the MLB trade deadline, landing Mason Miller, JP Sears, Ramon Laureano, Ryan O’Hearn, Freddy Fermin, Nestor Cortes, and Will Wagner.

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But they were also interested in making another splash at the deadline. According to Dennis Lin of The Athletic, the Padres were one of the teams that called the Minnesota Twins about a potential trade involving Byron Buxton.

As Lin mentions, Preller is involved in trade discussions about Buxton isn’t a surprise. Nearly any player who is available, Preller is connected to in some capacity. While a package for Buxton would have been huge, Preller might’ve swung such a deal.

He dealt Leo De Vries, the top prospect in the Padres’ farm system, to the Athletics for Miller and Sears. He likely wouldn’t have been afraid of giving up top-dollar to land Buxton, who has been one of the best outfielders this season.

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While a Buxton, Jackson, Merrill, and Fernando Tatis Jr. outfield would’ve been incredible, such a trade was highly unlikely. Buxton has a full no-trade clause, and according to Dan Hayes of The Athletic, he wasn’t going to waive it.

Buxton is on the injured list, but teams were still vying for him, including Preller and the Padres. The 31-year-old Platinum Glove center fielder was one of the most highly sought-after players at the deadline, if he were available.

MORE: Padres pull off blockbuster trade for Athletics’ Mason Miller

While the Twins conducted a fire sale at the deadline, Buxton was never a serious trade candidate. He earned his second All-Star nod this season, and through 85 games, has 92 hits, 68 runs scored, 14 doubles, 23 home runs, 59 RBIs, and a .905 OPS.

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His value wouldn’t be incredibly high just because of his great play; he’s also under control through the 2028 season. He’ll make $15.14 million per year through the rest of this deal. It’s a very reasonable price tag for someone as talented as Buxton.

While Preller called the Twins about Buxton, a deal was never likely. He wasn’t going to waive his no-trade clause, despite interest from top contenders around baseball.

The Padres didn’t land Buxton, but Laureano has been great in left field for the Padres. While the Padres missed out on Buxton, the rest of their deadline moves were more than adequate for a top contender in the National League.

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