Twins activate Buxton before MLB at Field of Dreams Game

The Twins have activated outfielder Byron Buxton from the injured list, the club announced Thursday ahead of the MLB at Field of Dreams Game against the Phillies. Buxton will serve as the 27th man for Thursday’s game, but a corresponding move will be needed when the series continues on Saturday.

Buxton, 32, had been on the shelf since July 29 with a right hip impingement. He worked out on Monday, which included running the bases and hitting on the field, and felt good when he returned on Tuesday. He did not require a Minor League rehab assignment.

Importantly, Twins manager Derek Shelton said Buxton will return to his duties as the center fielder and will not be limited to a role solely as the designated hitter.

This was the second trip to the injured list this season for Buxton, both times with a right hip issue. When he’s been on the field, however, Buxton has performed like a star. He’s slashing .263/.320/.544 and has hit 25 home runs in 82 games. The 25 long balls are already the third-most in a season in his career.

The timing is strong for Minnesota, too. Buxton returns with the team just 3.5 games behind the White Sox for the AL Central lead, tied for second with the Tigers. The Twins also remain locked in a tight race for a Wild Card spot. After winning a pivotal series against the Orioles to start the week, they enter Thursday just a half-game behind the Rangers for the third bid.