Defensive whiz Buxton also impresses with bat

MINNEAPOLIS — While Byron Buxton has continued to prove himself to be an elite defender in center field, as evidenced by his leaping catch to rob Nelson Cruz of a potential three-run homer on Friday, it’s Buxton’s offense this month that has the Twins excited about his future.

Since being called up Sept. 1, Buxton is hitting .301/.354/.601 with seven homers, four doubles, a triple and 16 RBIs in 21 games entering Saturday. He’s incorporated more of a leg kick to help with his timing, but said it’s a renewed confidence in the batter’s box that has helped him the most.

“I think most of it is just the work I’ve put in the cages with the hitting coaches and going out there and just playing the game,” Buxton said. “I’m not going up there thinking too much or pressing. I’m up there trying to be aggressive. I feel more confident and prepared in the box. I feel like that allows me to take that pressure off. I can just be myself.”

Buxton said getting sent down to the Minors on Aug. 8 …

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