Pitcher Joe Ryan and center fielder Byron Buxton had stellar games Tuesday night on the big stage in Atlanta. The AL rallied to force a swing-off but lost to the NL.

Buxton is the son of Felton and Carrie Buxton. His father, Felton, made his living as a truck driver, eventually owning a trucking company. Byron has paid homage to his father with a truck driver celebration after home runs.

It was a strong showing by Ryan, a deserving All-Star who probably shouldn't have needed to get in as a replacement player. He's been outstanding all season for the Twins, who have dealt with injuries and poor performance from other key members of their rotation.

Buxton is 31, owed around $45 million from 2026-28 for a team that counts pennies, and has dealt with wrist, thumb, groin, head, toe, shoulder, hip, hand, and knee injuries, just to name a few, which too often have hindered one of the most-hyped prospects ever in an 11-year career.

The Minnesota Twins held All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton out of the starting lineup on Thursday because of a bruised left hand that is not expected to affect his availability for long.

The stage is set for a fun Friday night at Target Field featuring Ryan vs. fellow All-Star Paul Skenes and a postgame concert.

Initial X-rays were negative, but the injury takes place five days before Buxton's scheduled to compete in the Home Run Derby.