The Mets upgraded in center field by trading for Cedric Mullins at the trade deadline, but not before swinging for the fences.
The franchise checked in with Byron Buxton’s agent, B.B. Abbott, to see if the Twins’ superstar outfielder would waive his no-trade clause and accept a move out of Minnesota, according to a report from The Athletic.
Buxton and Abbott were said to have “routinely waved off interested clubs in July” as the longtime Twin desired to stay in Minnesota, which he stated over the All-Star break.
“It’s always good to be wanted,” Buxton said during a press conference in Atlanta. “Don’t get me wrong. But the only place I want is Minnesota. All of my choices are easy. I ain’t got but one place on my mind. That’s how it’ll be.”
Buxton, 31, is enjoying one of the best seasons of his career, hitting .282/.343/.561 with 23 home runs and 17 stolen bases and excellent defense in center field.
He’s spent his entire big league career with the Twins after being selected first overall in the 2012 MLB Draft.
The two-time All-Star was thought of as a potential trade candidate after the Twins’ season went sideways before he made his stance on his no-trade clause clear in mid-July.
At least six teams inquired with Abbott about Buxton, The Athletic added, although the Mets and Braves reportedly showed the most interest.
The Mets instead pivoted to Mullins and improving their bullpen, trading for Tyler Rogers, Ryan Helsley and Gregory Soto.
The Twins were one of the busiest teams at the deadline, trading 10 active Major League players from their roster in seven deals, including sending Carlos Correa back to Houston.
