Twins’ Collision: Correa and Buxton Both in Concussion Protocol
In a concerning incident during a game against the Baltimore Orioles, Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa and outfielder Byron Buxton collided in the third inning, resulting in both players being placed in concussion protocol. The collision occurred while the pair were attempting to catch a fly ball hit by Cedric Mullins. Correa, who had his back to the field while tracking the ball, and Buxton, coming in from center field, collided head-on before Buxton managed to catch the ball.
Details of the Incident
Immediately following the collision, Correa left the game, while Buxton initially remained in the contest before also departing. The Twins confirmed the players’ status as they enter concussion protocol, which could potentially affect their availability in upcoming games.
Season Performance
Both players have experienced varied fortunes this season. Correa, 30, has struggled significantly, entering the game batting just .238 with a 70 OPS+, marking a considerable dip from his career standards. Despite this, he had shown some signs of improvement recently, recording multiple hits in two of his last three games.
In contrast, Buxton, 31, has been one of the more productive assets for the Twins, boasting a batting average of .258 and an impressive 124 OPS+. He hit his 10th home run of the season just before the collision, highlighting his offensive contributions to the team.
Team Impact and Outlook
The Twins are already feeling the impact of injuries this season, with rookie infielder Luke Keaschall sidelined due to a fractured forearm and outfielder Matt Wallner out for a month with a hamstring strain. The current situation leaves Minnesota in a precarious position as they try to maintain momentum amidst these challenges.
Entering the game, the Twins held a record of 23-20, buoyed by a recent ten-game winning streak that included several victories against the Orioles. This strong performance followed a difficult 4-11 start to the season, illustrating the team’s resilience.
Conclusion
The injuries to Correa and Buxton could significantly affect the Twins’ lineup and their ongoing campaign. As the team evaluates their conditions, their future performance could hinge on the timely recovery of these key players. The situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball’s physical demands and the impacts that injuries can have on a team’s roster and performance. The Twins and their fans will certainly be hoping for swift recoveries to keep their momentum alive.
