However, good news was tempered by an injury update. After injuring his thumb, Kurtz was placed on the 10-day injured list, which is expected to keep him out of next week’s game at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. The situation began when he exited Wednesday’s 6-1 loss to Detroit after 1 1/2 innings due to an illness the team was monitoring. On Thursday, Kurtz went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts, and imaging or additional evaluation led to the IL designation.
Kurtz has a personal connection to the All-Star opportunity this year. A native of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the in-state All-Star bid was especially meaningful. He previously expressed that having his first All-Star appearance in Philadelphia would be a “full-circle moment” and “really cool” to have in his home state, potentially with many family members in attendance. He led American League first basemen in votes from players on the ballot, and after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. announced he would not participate, Kurtz was next in line for a starting spot. The Athletics have another starter in place for the game, with Shea Langeliers starting at catcher. Had Kurtz and Langeliers started together, they would have become the first A’s All-Star starters pair since Rickey Henderson and Dave Henderson in 1991.
The Athletics organization and Kurtz’s fans will be hoping for a swift return, as his contributions at the plate have been a major factor in the team’s recent performance. As he works through the IL stint, teammates and supporters will be watching closely for his comeback and continued impact in the lineup.
