Nick Kurtz Misses 2026 All‑Star Game Over Thumb Sprain

Kurtz’s All‑Star Hopes Dash

Nick Kurtz, the 23‑year‑old Athletics first baseman, was set to make his Midsummer Classic debut as the American League’s starter at home plate. The rookie’s rapid rise—highlighted by a historic four‑homer game and a unanimous AL Rookie of the Year award—made him a perfect candidate for the spotlight. Instead, a right thumb capsule sprain has placed him on the 10‑day injured list, retroactive to Friday, ending his All‑Star aspirations for this summer. The injury means the franchise will not see its first All‑Star first baseman since Jason Giambi’s selection in 2000.

All‑Star Roster Changes

The AL roster has been reshaped to accommodate the vacancy. Chicago White Sox center fielder Tristan Peters, a first‑time All‑Star who hit for the cycle against the A’s in a 14‑1 victory, will replace Kurtz. Peters joins fellow Sox players Miguel Vargas and Munetaka Murakami, giving Chicago three representatives in the exhibition. The Athletics will fill their infield void with catcher Brian Serven, recalled from Triple‑A Las Vegas.

Manager Mark Kotsay disclosed that Kurtz has been dealing with the thumb issue for more than a few days before the evaluation. “We’re expecting him to have to go to the IL, which, obviously, will impact the All‑Star Game,” Kotsay said per MLB.com. The team’s medical staff will determine a more precise timeline once further tests are completed.

Athletics’ Broader Injury Picture

Kurtz isn’t the only A’s player sidelined this week; utility infielder Zack Gelof landed on the 10‑day list after a right knee laceration while making a spectacular catch against the Detroit Tigers. The injury‑depleted Athletics entered Saturday’s game against the White Sox on a seven‑game losing streak, sliding from a 36‑36 record to a disappointing 5‑17 run over that span. The tandem injuries have compounded the team’s struggles, leaving them in a tough spot atop the AL West.

The thumb sprain marks a swift reversal for a player who only last season captured national attention with his breakout season. As the A’s grapple with multiple injuries, fans will watch to see how depth players like Serven and others step up in the absence of their star talent.