Nick Kurtz leaves game after being hit by Red Sox pitch

On July 29, 2026, at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California, Oakland Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz was struck on his left forearm by a 95 mph sinker from Boston Red Sox starter Patrick Sandoval in the first inning. The hit caused a bruised forearm, and Kurtz exited the game after the inning. Kurtz, who had just returned from a ten‑day injured‑list stint for a right thumb sprain, was batting .260 with 21 home runs, 69 RBIs and 77 walks at the time of the incident. The Athletics were already dealing with several other injuries on their roster.

The incident was reported by Field Level Media and the Associated Press, confirming that Kurtz left the contest due to the injury sustained from the pitch.