MINNEAPOLIS -- Byron Buxton is headed back to the injured list.
Just nine days after he was activated, Buxton has returned to the IL with what the Twins are calling a right hip impingement. The star outfielder’s right hip has been bothering him since May.
He went on the IL in mid-July and missed his third All-Star Game, hoping he could knock out the injury and play without issue for the remainder of the season. However, Buxton experienced renewed discomfort during Tuesday night's 3-2 win against the Royals, and was removed from the game after two plate appearances.
“He had an injection today from Dr. [Christopher] Larson,” said manager Derek Shelton.
The Twins recalled infielder Tristan Gray from Triple-A St. Paul to take Buxton’s roster spot. Luke Keaschall got the start in center field on Wednesday and will likely get the bulk of playing time there while Buxton is out.
In 82 games this season, Buxton is slashing .263/.320/.544 with 25 homers and seven stolen bases.