Shortly after return from IL, Kurtz sustains forearm contusion on HBP
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WEST SACRAMENTO -- Less than a week since returning from the injured list, Nick Kurtz might be looking at another stint.
Facing left-hander Patrick Sandoval in the bottom of the first inning of Wednesday’s game against the Red Sox at Sutter Health Park, Kurtz was struck in the left hand/forearm area by a 94.9 mph sinker and crouched down in significant pain. After getting checked out by Athletics manager Mark Kotsay and trainer Jeff Collins, Kurtz briefly remained in the game as a baserunner before getting replaced on defense by Jeff McNeil at first base to begin the second, leaving the game with what the A’s diagnosed as a left forearm contusion.
This was yet another blow in what has been a brutal season on the injury front for the A’s, who have already lost sluggers Brent Rooker and Shea Langeliers for the season due to injury. Kurtz was still trying to find his rhythm at the plate in what was just his fifth game back from a right thumb capsule sprain that kept him out from July 10-24.
There aren’t many more key players left for the A’s to lose, but it goes without saying that any extended missed time for Kurtz would be devastating. The All-Star first baseman and reigning American League Rookie of the Year has been putting together a strong sophomore campaign, entering Wednesday slashing .260/.398/.491 (.889 OPS) with 21 home runs and 69 RBIs. Even with time missed due to injury, Kurtz ranks third in the Majors in walks (77), third in on-base percentage, is tied for 10th in RBIs and ranks 11th in OPS.
There is no replacing the production that Kurtz brings as a middle-of-the-order presence. Should he land on the IL, the A’s would likely cycle in a few different options at first base, including McNeil, Jonah Heim and No. 7 prospect Tommy White. Infield options the A’s could call upon from Triple-A include Max Muncy, Darell Hernaiz, Joey Meneses and Jonathan Ornelas.
The A’s will likely have a better idea on Kurtz’s long-term status ahead of Thursday’s series finale against Boston after he undergoes further testing.