Twins make roster change amid ALDS against Astros
Jul 27, 2019; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton (25) reacts after being caught in a double play against the Chicago White Sox to end the eighth inning at Guaranteed Rate Field. The Chicago White Sox won 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
The Minnesota Twins have made a big roster move ahead of Game 4 of their ALDS against the Houston Astros.
The Twins received permission from MLB to remove Alex Kiriloff from their ALDS roster and replace him with Byron Buxton. Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Wednesday that Kiriloff continues to deal with a shoulder injury that has bothered the first baseman during the second half of the season. Kiriloff apparently is having trouble swinging.
Rocco Baldelli said Alex Kirilloff is dealing with the same shoulder problem he had in the second half.
It’s gotten progressively worse, to the point he’s having trouble swinging.
Donovan Solano will be the primary first baseman. Edouard Julien and Kyle Farmer are also options.
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) October 11, 2023
Kiriloff is 0-for-9 with two walks and four strikeouts this postseason. He also made an error at first base in Game 3 in the top of the first inning.
⚾️ @AROD breaks down the first inning error by Twins 1B Alex Kirilloff ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/l8fwu4H3Zg
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 10, 2023
Buxton has not played in a game since August 1 due to a knee injury. He’s been doing rehab and took live batting practice last week.
Buxton had 17 home runs and a .731 OPS in 85 games this season prior to his knee injury.
The Twins entered Game 4 down 2-1 in the series.