Twins outfielder Byron Buxton suffers concussion in outfield collision

Minnesota Twins outfield prospect Byron Buxton suffered a concussion last night while playing for Double-A New Britain in the Eastern League. He collided with teammate Mike Kvasnicka in the fifth inning of the game against Bowie. Buxton was reportedly unconscious for 10 minutes and was eventually transported by ambulance to a local hospital, accompanied by Twins GM Terry Ryan, who was present at the game for Buxton's Double-A debut.

Buxton was later released from the hospital, diagnosed with a concussion. There were no broken bones and his CT was normal, which is often the case even with a serious concussion.

Buxton was regarded by many experts as the top position player prospect in baseball entering 2014. Unfortunately he has been plagued with injuries this year, most notably a wrist injury. As a result he hasn't put up the expected numbers, hitting .234/.307/.395 in 124 at-bats for High-A Fort Myers before his promotion to New Britain this week. Despite this, scouts still love his combination of All-Star caliber physical tools and reasonably advanced skills, thinking that he just needs to shake off the rust from the wrist troubles.

No word yet on when Buxton will retake the field. Concussions are serious business and with just two weeks left in the minor league season, it may be wise to err on the side of caution and let him rest his head for a fresh start next year.

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