"Like a deer run" - When Mike Trout shared his admiration for Byron Buxton's performance in center field
While he is out in the field, Minnesota Twins slugger Byron Buxton is one of the best center fielders in the league. He can cover an immense amount of ground and has a cannon to back that up.
This season, he has played the outfield nearly perfect, not committing a single error. He has been a reason for his club's success over the last few years and is a player teams can build around.
While Buxton has turned many fans' heads, he has also caught the attention of some of the league's biggest stars. Buxton sat down with Torii Hunter and Mike Trout in 2018 and the trio had nothing but great things to say about each other. Trout said:
"He's one of the fastest, if not, the fastest center fielder in the game. It's like a deer running out in center field."
Trout was mesmerized by just how quick Buxton is out there. He is one of the fastest outfielders in the game and can easily run balls down, which others would not be capable of doing. Trout added:
"You think you got a double and he catches it. It's like, man, just got to tip your cap."
Byron Buxton amused by Mike Trout's passion for the game
This conversation certainly was not a one-way street. Byron Buxton quickly showed his appreciation for Mike Trout and the way he goes about his business:
"I like the passion he has for the game. [He] goes out there every day and gives 110%, shows his emotions. That is something that I look up to."
Buxton revealed that he looks up to Trout. From his passion to his leadership, Buxton has taken a few notes:
"That passion that he has and the excitement that he plays with , that kind of strives me a little bit more each and every day to come out of the shyness of myself and be a little bit more open."
Unfortunately, injuries have been the biggest obstacle for these two. Trout played in just 29 games this season for the Los Angeles Angels. Buxton had a better year, but still missed 60 regular-season games.
The sport is much better when both these players are out on the field. Hopefully, they can get healthy over the winter and be ready for the 2025 season.