For all the evidence that Byron Buxton has had an All-Star season, the supporting statistics start and end with this simple number: 73.

And this time, after consulting with teammates, family and friends, the Twins center fielder is going as a Monday night Home Run Derby participant next week, too. The last, and first, time Buxton played in the All-Star Game was 2022 in Los Angeles, when he homered in an American League victory at Dodger Stadium.

An All-Star Game appearance, no matter where it is, is a special honor and acknowledgement. But for Byron Buxton, with the game being held in Atlanta, a little over three hours from his hometown