Byron Buxton Held Out of Lineup with Hand Contusion; All-Star & Home Run Derby Status Monitored

All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton was held out of the Minnesota Twins' starting lineup on Thursday after sustaining a bruised left hand from a 98 mph fastball. Initial X-rays confirmed a contusion with no breaks, and manager Rocco Baldelli anticipates Buxton will be fine and could return soon, potentially even as a pinch-hitter. Despite the soreness, his participation in next week's All-Star Game and Home Run Derby does not appear to be in jeopardy, but his day-to-day status is being closely monitored as he continues his standout season, which includes 20 home runs, tied for sixth in the AL, along with strong slugging and OPS numbers.