Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz will start the All-Star Game at first base for the American League, replacing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays. Guerrero had been voted in as a starter by fans but is opting to let his ailing back heal as opposed to participating in the game.
Kurtz, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, received the most votes among American League first basemen on the player ballot and will move into the starting role. Guerrero has dealt with periodic back issues and has missed several games due to the ailment.
The All-Star Game is set for July 14 in Philadelphia.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
