Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz expected to be sidelined through August after PRP injection

Nick Kurtz’s ability to return for the Oakland Athletics has taken a hit, with the first baseman expected to be sidelined at least through August after receiving a platelet-rich plasma injection for his right thumb. In comments relayed to Martín Gallegos of, Athletics manager Mark Kotsay indicated the thumb will be immobilized for the month, describing the situation as a practical four-week stretch without mobility, which in turn narrows the window for a late-season comeback.

The Athletics’ immediate concern is straightforward: playing time at first base and the lineup flexibility that comes with a corner bat. With Kurtz immobilized, Oakland will have to rely more heavily on other options at first base for the remainder of August, which can influence daily lineup construction even without any change in team strategy beyond personnel.

From a medical and operational standpoint, the thumb timeline is what matters most. Immobilization is intended to protect the injured area during the most critical early phase of recovery. The reported “no mobility” period means Kurtz would need not only to heal, but also to reintroduce normal use of the thumb in time to regain the functional strength and comfort required for hitting and defensive actions, all while managing the risk of setbacks if the timetable slips.

Kotsay’s remarks, as reported, also frame expectations for how the calendar can affect outcomes. If four weeks pass with the thumb immobilized, the remaining time to get Kurtz back into game action becomes tight. That is why the reporting characterizes his return before the end of the 2026 season as unlikely.

For the Athletics, the situation arrives with August already in progress, which typically limits how quickly teams can plan around a significant day-to-day availability change. Even when roster options exist, the knock-on effects can include shifts in defensive alignments, platoon usage, and opportunities for other players to prove they can cover first base over a sustained stretch.

What to watch next is whether Oakland provides additional clarity on Kurtz’s progress as August advances, including when he can begin regaining mobility and whether there is any update on the length of immobilization. Any move toward more functional use of the thumb would be the first meaningful sign that a late-season return remains possible.

Until then, the simplest takeaway is that the Athletics are operating under a near-term constraint at first base. Kurtz’s thumb will not be treated as something that can be accelerated on a whim, and Oakland’s remaining August plan will likely reflect that reality rather than speculation about a quick turnaround.