Twins add Byron Buxton to ALDS roster as injury replacement for Alex Kirilloff

The Minnesota Twins are substituting Byron Buxton onto their American League Division Series roster, a move MLB approved and announced Wednesday.

His activation comes due to an undisclosed injury sustained by first baseman and outfielder Alex Kirilloff, who was replaced by Donovan Solano during the Twins' 9-1 Game 3 loss to the Houston Astros on Tuesday.

Buxton, 29, is replacing Kirilloff as he heads to the injured list.

This means Kirilloff won't be able to return during the ALDS or American League Championship Series, if the Twins advance that far. But if they make it to the World Series, Kirilloff is eligible to come back.

While details surrounding his injury have yet to be revealed, the Commissioner’s Office must approve every postseason roster substitution — a process that involves the investigation of "specific facts and circumstances," along with confirmation from MLB’s medical director.

Minnesota's lineup ahead of Wednesday's game doesn't list Buxton, and it's a must-win game. The Twins are down 2-1 in the best-of-five series against the Astros. Minnesota is looking to stop the opposing team from making a seventh consecutive appearance in the ALCS.

Buxton spent this season in the team's designated hitter position and hasn't played since Aug. 1 due to a knee injury. Before that, he batted .207/.294/.438 with 17 homers across 347 plate appearances.

He was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 draft behind his Twins teammate Carlos Correa, but he has dealt with multiple injuries since signing a seven-year, $100 million contract extension in December 2021.

Buxton was seen warming up his swing ahead of the crucial matchup:

Star Twins rookie Royce Lewis, who hit the first homer of the postseason, moved from DH to third base in Game 3, which could clear a spot for Buxton to play. The newly activated veteran will be available to come off the bench.