Joshua Kuroda-Grauer Leaves Game vs. Diamondbacks with Injury

However, he was in visible discomfort afterward and was ultimately replaced on defense by Donovan Walton before the bottom of the sixth inning. Kuroda-Grauer finished the night 2-for-3 with a home run, a single, and a strikeout.

Following Monday's win, the Athletics announced Kuroda-Grauer exited due to a testicular contusion. He underwent an ultrasound to determine the severity of his injury.

If Kuroda-Grauer is forced to miss an extended period, it would be yet another blow to an already injury-riddled A's lineup. More importantly, it would halt the former Rutgers star's sensational start to his MLB career.

Through 16 games, Kuroda-Grauer is slashing a video-game-like .417/.435/.583 with seven doubles, a home run, and four RBI. He has recorded a hit in all but two games and already has eight multi-hit performances.

Kuroda-Grauer's early success has been one of the few bright spots for the A's, who have lost 17 of their last 22 games. During that span, their offense has slowed, averaging 3.8 runs per game. Their 84 runs scored since June 23 are the fourth-fewest in baseball.

Several injuries have contributed to the offensive decline. Slugger Brent Rooker is out for the rest of the 2026 season after undergoing season-ending surgery to repair cartilage in his left knee, while star first baseman Nick Kurtz is on the 10-day injured list with a right thumb capsule sprain. He has not played since July 9.

Additionally, infielder Zack Gelof is also on the 10-day injured list with a right knee laceration.

The A's hope Kuroda-Grauer can avoid the injured list and continue his stellar start sooner rather than later.

While it remains unclear whether Kuroda-Grauer will miss time, expect Walton to receive more playing time at third base until he returns.

Injuries have been a major factor in the A's slide down the standings. After sitting just one game out of both the American League West lead and the third American League Wild Card spot through June 23, the Athletics enter Tuesday 7.5 games behind the division-leading Seattle Mariners and 8.5 games out of a Wild Card spot.

The Athletics continue their series in Arizona on Tuesday at 9:40 pm ET.