In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves across Major League Baseball, the Philadelphia Phillies have officially confirmed their pursuit of Minnesota Twins superstar Byron Buxton, the $100 million outfield force who just smashed 35 home runs in 2025. With the Winter Meetings set to ignite the league’s trade market, the Phillies are wasting no time making one of the boldest moves of the offseason.
Phillies Make Their Intentions Clear
Philadelphia entered the winter with two major uncertainties looming over their offseason — the futures of Kyle Schwarber and Ranger Suárez. But behind the scenes, the front office had a far bigger target circled: a true five-tool, game-changing outfielder who could transform the top of their lineup.
Now, that plan has come into full focus. Team sources have confirmed that the Phillies are actively working to bring Byron Buxton to Citizens Bank Park, targeting the All-Star center fielder as the centerpiece of a major roster upgrade.
Buxton Opens the Door
The breakthrough came when ESPN insiders Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel revealed that Buxton would waive his no-trade clause for multiple teams — including the Phillies. That revelation immediately thrust Philadelphia into the spotlight as one of the strongest landing spots.
Buxton’s contract — a seven-year, $100 million deal — is surprisingly team-friendly considering his elite production when healthy. And after a season where he not only stayed on the field but excelled, the Twins are now faced with a decision that could reshape their franchise.
Why the Phillies Want Buxton
The Phillies have been searching for an impact outfielder for several seasons. Buxton checks every box:
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35 home runs in 2025
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83 RBI
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136 OPS+
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120+ games played for the first time since 2017
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Gold Glove–caliber defense
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Elite speed and athleticism
If Philadelphia moves on from Harrison Bader, Buxton would immediately become the everyday center fielder — bringing power, defense, and star-level presence to the heart of the outfield.
What the Phillies Would Have to Give Up
A deal for a player of Buxton’s caliber won’t come cheaply.
Early framework discussions point to a package that could include:
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Bryson Stott or Alec Bohm
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Top prospect Aidan Miller
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A lower-level minor league prospect
Minnesota, battling financial strain and already having signaled a partial rebuild at the deadline, is open to reshaping its roster. Buxton’s value is at its highest point in years — making this the moment for a decisive move.
Another Major Veteran on the Move?
The Phillies’ aggressive pursuit of Buxton also intensifies speculation that the club may be preparing to part ways with another veteran contributor to make room for the incoming superstar and the financial shift that comes with him.
With Philadelphia confirming its intent to secure Buxton, questions now emerge:
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Who becomes the odd man out?
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Is a popular veteran quietly on the verge of being traded?
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And does this move signal a full-on roster shakeup ahead of 2026?
What’s clear is this: the Phillies are not playing small-ball this offseason.
They’re sending a message to the National League — loud and unmistakable.
A New Era Taking Shape
If the deal crosses the finish line, Byron Buxton won’t just be another addition.
He’ll be the most electrifying outfielder Philadelphia has acquired in more than a decade, a player capable of altering games with both his bat and his glove — and one who instantly elevates the Phillies’ postseason potential.
The Winter Meetings haven’t even begun, and the Phillies have already set the tone.
Big swing coming? They’ve just confirmed it.
