Rookie Star Resumes Playing Just 2 Months After Gruesome Injury

Athletics rookie infielder Joshua Kuroda-Grauer, who recently returned from a severe injury, will soon resume playing baseball. The incident occurred just two months ago, following a pitch that struck a sensitive area, resulting in a ruptured testicle and surgery. Kuroda-Grauer managed to finish his at-bat and even played a half inning in the field before needing medical attention.

Remarkably, he has now returned to action less than two months after the injury, starting a rehabilitation stint with Triple-A Las Vegas. Athletics' management intends to keep him in the minors for the rest of the season, aiming for his full recovery by the start of the 2027 season, according to MLB.com's Martin Gallegos.

The 24-year-old Kuroda-Grauer, a third-round draft pick in 2024, made a significant impact during his brief MLB career. He played 16 games for the Athletics, batting 25 times for 60 at-bats, scoring 25 hits, and hitting a home run with four RBIs. His 1.019 OPS ranks first among Athletics players for the season. Kuroda-Grauer started the year in Double-A with an .813 OPS before moving up to Triple-A for 42 games, where he posted an .866 OPS.

Despite his impressive season, securing a spot in the Athletics' Opening Day roster may prove challenging due to the presence of experienced players in the infield. Nick Kurtz, an All-Star and Silver Slugger, is expected to play first base, while Jacob Wilson, who recently received a long-term extension, will likely dominate shortstop duties.

Zach Gelof is considered the frontrunner for second base, with Donovan Walton and Alika Williams also vying for roster spots. The only direct competitor for Kuroda-Grauer's third base position is 24-year-old Max Muncy, who has struggled this season after a promising spring training. If Kuroda-Grauer continues to perform well during the remainder of the regular season and excels in spring training, it is highly likely he will secure a spot among the Athletics' starting infielders.