National Sports.

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay says Nick Kurtz is day-to-day after experiencing right oblique soreness against the Texas Rangers on Friday. Kotsay says the rookie had an MRI that returned “clean.” Kurtz was not in the lineup for the second game of a three-game series on Saturday. He began feeling discomfort after batting practice Friday. During the game, he drew a walk, was rounding third base, and heading for home on Brent Rooker’s double in the third inning when he apparently aggravated the soreness and slowed down. Kotsay says Kurtz is currently dealing with pain tolerance.

Athletics rookie slugger Nick Kurtz was removed Friday night against the Texas Rangers because of what the team described as right oblique soreness. Kurtz, who had drawn a walk, was rounding third base and heading for home on Brent Rooker’s double in the third inning when he apparently experienced the soreness, and slowed down. He was safe at home to tie the score at 2-2, but walked to the clubhouse with team medical staff. The Rangers went on to a 5-2 victory. The AL Rookie of the Year candidate was replaced at first base by Tyler Soderstrom, who came in from left field. Carlos Cortes went to left field.