Full Breakdown
Athletics Place Nick Kurtus and Jeffrey Springs on Injured List Amid Roster Shuffle
8/5/2026, 2:08:42 AM
Core Event
On Tuesday, the Oakland Athletics moved first baseman Nick Kurtus to the 10-day injured list (IL) with a strained right thumb and placed left-handed starter Jeffrey Springs on the 15-day IL for right-hip discomfort. Both placements were retroactive to Aug. 1. The moves also saw infielder Max Muncy recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas and right-hander J.T. Ginn reactivated.
Background & Context
Kurtus, the 2025 AL Rookie of the Year, has been a key offensive player since his mid-season debut. Oakland entered the 2026 season with several injuries, including All-Star catcher Shea Langeliers and designated hitter Brent Rooker. The team’s record sits at 45-67, outside the AL playoff picture.
Roster Moves and Player Status
- Nick Kurtus – 10-day IL (thumb strain). Diagnosed by hand specialist Dr. Steve Shinn; received a PRP injection, no return timetable.
- Jeffrey Springs – 15-day IL (hip discomfort). Leads the majors in losses and home runs allowed.
- J.T. Ginn – Reactivated; slated to start the series opener against the Cincinnati Reds.
- Max Muncy – Recalled to fill the vacancy at first base.
- Ben Bowden – Designated for assignment; Chen Zhong-Ao Zhuang cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A.
Data & Statistics
- Nick Kurtus: .256 average, 21 HR, 69 RBI, 79 walks in 99 games; OPS .879 (13th in MLB).
- Jeffrey Springs: 3-11 record, 6.17 ERA in 22 starts; 28 HR allowed.
- J.T. Ginn: 8-6 record, 3.46 ERA, 100 K in 109 1/3 innings.
Official Statements & Responses
No timeline for a return was provided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Kurtz has been playing mostly for the last month and a half with this thing,” — Mark Kotsay, manager
On-the-Ground Report
Kurtus’s last major-league hit was a three-run homer against the Minnesota Twins on July 26, after which he went 1-for-18 in seven games. Springs’ last win came in May; he has not recorded a victory since.
What’s Next
The Athletics will start J.T. Ginn in the upcoming series against the Reds while monitoring Kurtus’s rehab. No further roster moves have been announced, and the team’s postseason prospects remain minimal given the current record.
