URGENT UPDATE: Oakland Athletics rookie Nick Kurtz is officially listed as day-to-day after suffering from right oblique soreness during Friday’s game against the Texas Rangers, team manager Mark Kotsay confirmed on Saturday.
The rookie sensation underwent an MRI that returned “clean,” alleviating some fears about a serious injury. However, Kurtz will not be in the lineup for Saturday’s second game of the three-game series, leaving fans anxious for his swift return.
Kurtz began experiencing discomfort following batting practice on Friday. After drawing a walk, he was rounding third base on a double by Brent Rooker in the third inning when he appeared to aggravate the soreness, visibly slowing down as he scored to tie the game at 2-2. Immediately after crossing the plate, he walked to the clubhouse accompanied by the team’s medical staff.
Manager Kotsay stated, “There is no strain in terms of muscle tissue, but Kurtz is dealing with pain tolerance.” He did not provide a timeline for Kurtz’s return but expressed hope for a quick recovery, saying, “We hope to get him back sooner than later.”
This season, Kurtz has been a standout player, boasting an impressive batting average of .308 with 23 doubles, 2 triples, 27 home runs, and 70 RBIs. His remarkable performance includes making history as the first rookie in Major League Baseball to hit four homers in a single game, achieving this feat on July 25 against the Houston Astros. In that record-setting game, he also matched the MLB record for total bases with 19, along with a double, a single, and six RBIs.
The urgency surrounding Kurtz’s health is palpable among Athletics fans and the organization, particularly as they fight for postseason positioning. The team will closely monitor his condition as they navigate this critical phase of the season.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and fans await news on Kurtz’s recovery and potential return to the field.
